malaysia best tourist attractions

Dive Into Malaysia

Top 21 BEST Places To Visit In Malaysia [2024]

Malaysia is a popular travel destination but when many visitors think about where to visit in Malaysia, they settle for the big city of Kuala Lumpur and the beautiful beaches in Penang and on the island of Langkawi, leaving so many other best cities in Malaysia to visit.

The reality is that there are so many more Malaysia tourist attractions to see. Malaysia spans several large and small islands, and the truth is there are many answers to the question “where to travel in Malaysia”!

A diverse country, there are so many wonderful and attractive places in Malaysia. Not just in its pristine beaches and islands but nature parks too. You could spend months visiting Malaysia tourist places and not cover it all.

What’s more, Malaysia is very budget friendly, the locals are warm and welcoming and the food is inexpensive and delicious.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

So, if you’re wondering Malaysia – where to travel or perhaps you need more encouragement to visit Malaysia? Read on for our list of 21 of the best places to go in Malaysia. This is our ultimate list of the very best Malaysia travel destinations and you’re sure to find some must see places in Malaysia that are perfect for your vacation!

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

A list of the best places to visit in Malaysia would be incomplete without the capital, Kuala Lumpur. Top on my list of Malaysia attractions 2024, KL is often the first place people think of when planning where to go in Malaysia, and regularly features as one of the top cities to visit in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is the largest city in Malaysia, the major financial center of a melting pot of different cultures. This makes it one of the most exciting cities in Malaysia and shouldn’t be missed.

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur include a trip to the world famous Petronas Towers if you’re looking for the best place to visit in KL, taking a trip to the ancient Hindu temple at the Batu Caves, sampling some of the most amazing street food, visiting markets, mosques, theme parks, shopping and much more.

There’s no shortage of wonderful places to visit in Kuala Lumpur and you’ll likely struggle to fit in all the Kuala Lumpur tourist spots in a single visit. When it comes to the Malaysia best places to visit, Kuala Lumpur is a very strong contender, and it’s also one of the most fun places to visit in Malaysia.

If you’re wondering where to start with where to travel in Malaysia 2024, then you can do no wrong with starting in KL.

Getting to Kuala Lumpur: Kuala Lumpur has two major airports – KLIA and KLIA2. It is also well connected to the rest of Malaysia by bus and train.

Top Attraction to visit: The Petronas Towers are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia.

Top place to stay:  Berjaya Times Square Hotel – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Kuala Lumpur here .

One of the top travel destinations Malaysia has (especially for beach vacations), Langkawi is a Malaysia must see and many would argue the best island in Malaysia. Not only a beautiful destination with great beaches and attractions, there’s something to suit everyone in Langkawi on either ends of the main island.

When you picture best places to visit Malaysia in your head, it’s very likely the image you see is of Langkawi. This island is definitely one of the options for best place for vacation in Malaysia.

Langkawi is actually an archipelago but the main island offers a range of different locations to visit and stay. Pantai Cenang is one of the most popular beach destinations and home to Underwater World. Other more peaceful destinations are dotted throughout the island. If you love beaches, Langkawi is definitely one of the places to visit in Malaysia that you’ll want to consider. 

Temurun Waterfall is another popular attraction in Langkawi, as well as the Langkawi Cable Car which takes you to the peak of Gunung Machinchang where you’ll find restaurants, shops and other attractions. This is the best way to see that this option of Malaysia best places is not just about gorgeous beaches but also gorgeous jungle interior.

Getting to Langkawi: The best way to get to Langkawi is to fly. Flights leave multiple times daily from Kuala Lumpur and other cities.

Top Attraction to visit: Langkawi Cable Car 

Top place to stay:  Ritz-Carlton Langkawi – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Langkawi here .

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Another popular Malaysia tourist spots and top destinations in Malaysia is the state of Penang. This state offers many Malaysia places to visit for both first time and return visitors as it’s quite diverse, and it’s one of my personal favourite places to go Malaysia.

There’s a multicultural mix of influences and plenty of beaches, interesting architecture and affordable resort style accommodation. It’s also one of the best places in Malaysia to eat, offering some of the best cheap food.

If you’re wondering what to visit in Malaysia, you will love the array of things to do and see in Penang. Penang is home to important and culturally significant temples like Lok Si Temple, as well as British colonial leftovers like Fort Cornwallis, dating back to the 18th century when Penang was occupied by the British, as well as the historic George Town.

There’s so much to see and do in Penang, making it one of the top places in Malaysia and somewhere you should add to your list of what to see in Malaysia!

In fact, the combination of great food, interesting heritage, beaches and ease of getting here and around makes Penang my personal pick for the best place in Malaysia and definitely one of the best holiday places in Malaysia. If you’re new to Malaysia, best place to travel options are plenty here in Penang.

Getting to Penang: You can get to Penang by train, bus or plane. From Kuala Lumpur, flying is the quickest way to get there.

Top Attraction to visit: George Town

Top place to stay:  Shangri La Rasa Sayang – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Penang here .

Bukit Merah

Malaysia is well known as the home of the orangutan, and another thing visitors often include on their list of what to do in Malaysia is seeing orangutans.

One of the famous places in Malaysia where you can see orangutans is Bukit Merah.

Located just outside of Taiping, the town is surrounded by a lake. Its main attraction is Orang Utan Island – a sustainable tourist destination and one of the top things to see in Malaysia. The town is home to another sustainable attraction, the EcoPark – an enclosure home to many native and rare animals.

When you’re comparing Malaysia vacation destinations, know that this isn’t a cheap destination to visit, but this eco-tourist destination puts what they receive back into maintaining the environment, so it’s a place you can feel good about visiting. It really is the best place to see the orangutan in peninsular Malaysia.

If you want to support ecotourism and want to have a once in a lifetime experience, then Bukit Merah is definitely one of the best place to vacation in Malaysia options for you.

Getting to Bukit Merah: The best way to get there is to drive from Taiping. There are also buses. It’s also possible to day trip here from Penang.

Top Attraction to visit: Orang Utan Island

Top place to stay:  Bukit Merah Laketown Resort – Click here to see the latest prices.

Kuala Kangsar

Kuala Kangsar is a royal capital, and there is some amazing architecture to see and explore. When we visited, we found the city quiet yet still with a commanding presence owing to the grand buildings. These buildings are why it’s on this Malaysia place to visit list.

This is a town of palaces, and there are plenty to view like the Istana Iskandariah, the Istana Kenangan (constructed of wood), and the Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery.

If you want to go and explore somewhere off the beaten tourist track, then this best destination Malaysia might just be right up your street.

The major draw-card of this town is definitely the pretty architecture. There aren’t many attractions, but it does make a nice Malaysia tourist destination for a day trip.

Getting to Kuala Kangsar: You can get there by car, train and bus. The journey takes about an hour from Ipoh.

Top Attraction to visit: Ubudiah Mosque

Top place to stay:  The Shop Hotel – Click here for the latest prices

When we visited Ipoh, we didn’t know what to expect. We ended up loving it. Ipoh is the state capital of Perak and a fantastic destination for a short getaway with plenty of interesting places in Malaysia located in this city. Ipoh is definitely one of the nice places to visit in Malaysia which sees fewer tourists (a good thing in our view!).

If you’re idea of a Malaysia best place to visit includes fantastic food, interesting attractions and lots of fun then visit Ipoh.

There’s the unfinished Kellie’s Castle to explore, Tempurung Cave, the popular Sunway Lost World Of Tambun (great for families) and much more. The Old Town area is a fabulous place to walk around with cute alleyways and numerous street art to find and enjoy.

Plus, there’s Ipoh’s famous white coffee – a must try.

Ipoh is also a gateway to the Cameron Highlands – coming up next. If you’re wondering where to go in Malaysia for short trip, or just looking for an interesting place to visit in Malaysia, Ipoh is somewhere to consider.

Getting to Ipoh: The best way to get there is train, bus or hiring a car. You can also fly.

Top Attraction to visit : Old Town street art

Top place to stay:  Regalodge – Click here for the latest prices

Find all our Ipoh guides here.

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You can pick your own departure time, relax and know everything will go to plan.

Click here for prices and online booking.

Cameron Highlands

To escape the city life in Kuala Lumpur and the heat at lower altitudes, Malaysians go to The Cameron Highlands. It’s easy to see why and be tempted to join them if you’re looking for the best place for holiday in Malaysia to escape the heat and see something of the interiors of Malaysia too.

This best place to go in Malaysia option is beautiful. Its located high in the hills with rolling tea plantations, places of worship, museums and more. It’s also home to the highest point in Malaysia – Gunung Brinchang , as well as many beautiful hiking trails.

The higher altitude makes it a great place to cool down in tropical Malaysia, and with plenty of places to eat, drink and stay to suit all different budgets, it makes for a great place to see in Malaysia. If you love hill stations and greenery, the Cameron Highlands are definitely one of the best places in Malaysia to visit for your trip.

Getting to Cameron Highlands: The best way to get to the Cameron Highlands is by bus or hiring a car. Top Attraction to visit:   Boh Tea Plantation

Top place to stay: Nova Highlands Resort and Residence – Click here for the latest prices

Find all our Cameron Highlands guides here.

Port Dickson

Port Dickson is a popular destination from Kuala Lumpur for a beach getaway. There are plenty of top quality resorts with particularity good accommodation for families. We found the Avillion Port Dickson to be the best resort in Malaysia for family visits to Port Dickson or the Grand Lexis if you want your own pool. If you’re looking for a beach holiday within easy access of KL and fun places in Malaysia by the beach, PD is a place to consider visiting.

The resorts are generally outside of the main town, which is small but does have some nice restaurants and shops. There’s also some pretty beaches, but many of these are private.

There’s not a huge range of Malaysia attractions in Port Dickson, but there is the Tanjung Tuan lookout. Time is best spent here at one of the great resorts or the beach. This is my pick of the Malaysia destinations if you want some great priced resort time.

Getting to Port Dickson: You can get there by bus, taxi or rental car. It is about 60km from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Tanjung Tuan

Top place to stay: Lexis Hibiscus – Click here for the latest prices.

Read our best guides to Port Dickson here .

Melaka (also known as Malacca)

One of the other best places to see in Malaysia is Melaka. This is also one of the top historical places in Malaysia to visit, and a contender for the best city in Malaysia if you like your cities bite-sized, navigable and full of history. Malacca is also home to some of the main tourist attractions in Malaysia when it comes to cultural history.

This is a very pretty city and one of Malaysia points of interest for those interested in theology. The city is dotted with numerous churches like St Paul’s church, as well as temples and mosques, thanks to its rich cultural past.

There are also numerous other heritage sites around the city. What’s more, it’s a super easy place to explore on foot or on a trishaw.

Two of the major attractions in Melaka are the A Famosa Resort and the Dutch town of Stadthuys. Jonker Street is where you’ll find many of the main attractions. You’ll also want to visit Melaka River and the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

Melaka isn’t just a great place to visit but also makes top 10 places to visit in Malaysia lists because it is so easy to get here. It’s very accessible from Kuala Lumpur or Kuala Lumpur International Airport and you can day trip here from either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

Getting to Melaka: You can get there by plane, bus, car and boat.

Top Attraction to visit:  Jonker Street

Top place to stay:  Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka – Click here for the latest prices.

Read our best guides to Melaka here .

Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is one of the easy places to go in Malaysia from Singapore as it’s just across the border.

While not necessarily being one of the Malaysia holiday destinations, it’s still worth a visit, particularly if you are in Singapore. The city offers visitors several attractions including a mix of museums and natural landmarks like the Gunung Ledang National Park and Gunung Lambak.

For families with young kids, there’s also the famous Legoland which makes the city one of the best places to visit in Malaysia with family.

Other attractions include the traditional Kukup Fishing Village. You can also explore the shops and restaurants at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.

As the city is also just across the border from Singapore and one of the practical places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore, it’s one of the best place to visit in Malaysia for a one day trip.

Getting to Johor Bahru: Get there by plane, bus, car and boat.

Top Attraction to visit:  Legoland Malaysia

Top place to stay:  Hotel Jen – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Johor Bahru here .

Tioman Island

Tioman Island was once named one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Despite being a somewhat popular nice place to visit in Malaysia, it’s easy to feel like you have escaped the world here. It’s relatively untouched and makes for a wonderful destination to visit in Malaysia. And the beaches are some of the best in Malaysia.

The island is surrounded by coral reefs which make it great for scuba diving. Must see spots include Air Batang (or ABC Beach), one of the main settlements on the island, where you can find cheap beer and meals, and J uara beach.

The Island is also great for hiking. You’ll want to visit Aash Waterfall, hike across the island from west to east , as well as visit Paya beach.

If you are looking for Malaysia places to go which are not too hard to get to but feel like you are away from it all, consider Tioman.

Getting to Tioman Island: You can get to Tioman Island by ferry or plane. Flights leave from both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Click here for full details.

Top Attraction to visit: Air Batang is the main village on the island.

Top place to stay:  Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Click here for our full guide to Tioman Island.

Taman Negara National Park

You may have noticed a theme – Malaysia is home to a vast array of beautiful national parks. Taman Negara National Park holds the title as Malaysia’s largest national park. This 130 million year old rainforest is home to a huge array of local plants and animals and offers plenty of short and long hikes. It’s definitely worth adding to your Malaysia where to go list.

Once inside the park, there are several attractions to visit including Lata Berkoh , which is a short boat ride and a place where you can swim. You can also opt to climb Bukit Teresek, a 334m high hill. The Canopy Walkway is also a must do – and the longest like it in the world.

Note that the best time to visit is during the dry season, which is between February and September each year. If you are visiting at this time of year, definitely go to this Malaysia best place.

Getting to Taman Negara National Park: You can get there by train, taxi or car. It is a 3.5 hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Lata Berkoh

Top place to stay:  Mutiara Taman Negara Resort – Click here to see the latest prices.

Speaking of tourist places in Malaysia, have you considered Cherating if you’re planning to visit Malaysia 2024? This laid back coastal town has some lovely beach resorts and guest houses, as well as Club Med is also located here – arguably the best beach resort in Malaysia.

While the main attraction in Cherating are the beaches and resorts, there’s other Malaysia interesting places to visit like the nearby Turtle Island. This island is free to enter but you need to pay for the boat there. It helps nurture endangered turtles in an environment where they can thrive.

The beaches in Cherating aren’t as pretty as other parts of Malaysia (apart from the stunning option at Club Med) but the resorts are great and many are well priced. It’s a great place for a short trip in Malaysia.

Getting to Cherating: The best way to get there is by bus or hire car. You can take a bus from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Cherating Beach

Top place to stay:   Club Med Cherating Beach

Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu is the state capital of Terengganu, a city on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. It is one of the best places Malaysia if you love good food, friendly locals and an interesting range of low key attractions, and you’re looking for places to visit in East Malaysia.

It’s also the jumping off point for beautiful Redang Island (coming up next as it’s also a best place to visit Malaysia).

There is an interesting Chinatown to visit complete with street art, some great museums and some magnificent mosques. What really stood out to me when I visited this best destination in Malaysia, however, is the friendly locals. I have never felt so welcome anywhere in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuala Terengganu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur but it’s also a major bus hub.

Top Attraction to visit : Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque (or Floating Mosque)

Top place to stay:  Grand Puteri Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices.

Click here to see our full guide to Kuala Terengganu..

Redang Island

A list of the most beautiful places in Malaysia often includes Redang Island, and it’s easy to see why. This is most simply, the most beautiful place I have ever visited, and unsurprisingly Redang was my best trip in Malaysia of recent years. 

Redang Island is a mix of pleasant resorts and pristine, white sand beaches. It makes for the perfect relaxing getaway and best tourist place in Malaysia. Several of my memories of the best travel in Malaysia are from here.

The main beach is Pasir Panjang (or Long Beach) and, located on the east side of the island, it is one of the popular holiday places in Malaysia for those visiting the east of the country.

While there’s not a whole lot to see if you aren’t a nature lover nor is there a big nightlife scene like some other islands in Malaysia, this is a best place to travel in Malaysia for a calm stay and for cheap, beautiful and easy snorkeling. If you love islands and beaches, then Redang is definitely one of the best place to travel in Malaysia!

Getting to Redang Island: You can get there by plane or boat. Several flights leave daily from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Pasir Panjang

Top place to stay:  The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Read our best guides to Redang Island here.

Kenyir Lake

An artificial lake located in Terengganu, Kenyir lake is the largest man-made lake in South East Asia. This lesser known attraction in Malaysia has been developed as an ecotourism destination and the lake provides hydroelectric power to the region.

It’s also one of the top inland fishing destinations in Malaysia and a gateway to Taman Negara.

This interesting place in Malaysia has several attractions around the like the caves of Bewah and Taat as well as Anglers Heaven, jungle walks and waterfalls. Lake Kenyir Resort is also a pleasant place to stay.

To access the actual lake you’ll need to have a boat to access the lake which you can organise with a tour operator easily. A visit to this Malaysia travel place is the perfect way to see a different slice of Malaysia while enjoying nature.

Getting to Kenyir Lake: A 50 minute drive from Kuala Terengganu Airport. You can fly there from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: The lake

Top place to stay:  Lake Kenyir Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Perhentian Islands

Less explored than Langkawi, but rated by many as the best holiday destination in Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands offer serene beaches with crystal clear water.

These islands are a travel place in Malaysia that you won’t want to leave, and although there are no museums or culturally significant monuments, there are pristine beaches, crystal clear water and beautiful coral reefs at the appropriately named Coral Bay with sunsets that’ll linger in your memories for a while after you do have to go home.

This is the ultimate place to go snorkeling and scuba diving in Malaysia. You can also go jungle trekking and do activities like kayaking.

Although there’s not much else to do on the island, its natural environment shows the best of Malaysia and it’s one of my personal best places to travel in Malaysia.

Getting to Perhentian Islands : You will need to take a boat there. The main ferry terminal is in Kuala Besut. Instructions are here.

Top Attraction to visit: Coral Bay

Top place to stay:  Perhentian Island Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Read our best guides to the Perhentian Islands here .

Kota Bharu is the state capital of Kelantan, a conservative city on the east coast of the mainland.

This one of the Malaysia cities to visit is relatively laid back with some interesting places to visit like Istana Jahar, a 19th century royal residence, Istana Balai Besar or Grand Palace, as well as other museums and mosques.

There’s also a vibrant night market and street art scene. While Kota Bharu may not make it to top of the list for the top place to visit in Malaysia, spending a few hours or a couple of days in Kota Bharu allows you to see laid back Malaysian life – without the tourists – and it’s a useful stop over if you’re heading to Kuala Besut for the Perhentian islands as well.

The one of the best cities to visit in Malaysia offers visitors a chance to experience a different pace of life and to see the cultural heart of Malaysia. As such, it’s one of the interesting places to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kota Bharu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there, but you can also get there by train, bus and car.

Top Attraction to visit : Istana Jahar

Top place to stay:  Hotel Perdana – Click here to see the latest prices

Click here to see our guide to Kota Bharu.

Kuching, also known as Cat City, is a port city located on the island of Borneo. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sarawak, Borneo. The city is interesting yet still one of the more relaxing places to visit in Malaysia, so if you want to head to Borneo, why not give Kuching a try?

This charming city is abound with museums like the Sarawak Museum and Cat Museum (a must visit in Cat City!) and places of worship like Tua Pek Kong Temple.

It’s also located near some beautiful national parks like Bako National Park as well as Kubah National Park.

The range of activities to visit in the surrounds and the lovely riverfront area makes Kucking my pick for the best city to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuching: The best way to get to Kuching is to fly. Several budget airlines fly here.

Top Attraction to visit: Cat Museum

Top place to stay:  Hilton Kuching – Click here to see the latest prices

Kota Kinabalu

A quiet destination in Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is a pretty city on our Malaysia tourist places list offering visitors several attractions and activities.

Kota Kinabalu is one of the top places to visit in Malaysia to go island hopping – but think relaxation, not partying. Gaya Island is one of the most popular, as well as Manukan which is one of the islands that make up the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. These islands great for jungle trekking and diving.

In town, you can climb to Signal Hill Observatory to soak in the city sites and do some shopping at the local markets.

The access to beautiful beaches as well as nature treks make Kota Kinabalu a top destination in Malaysia Borneo. If you’re looking for the best place Malaysia to stop over en route to trekking and jungle exploration, consider stopping off in Kota Kinabalu.

Getting to Kota Kinabalu: The easiest way to get to Kota Kinabalu is by flying.

Top Attraction to visit: Signal Hill

Top place to stay:  Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Sandakan is a small option of where to go Malaysia with few attractions inside the town itself. However, it has huge historical significance from World War II. The Sandakan Memorial Park pays homage to this dark part of history.

The small museum and accompanying walk is dedicated to the prisoners of war from the Borneo Death Marches and commemorates those who lost their lives. This makes for a confronting memorial. While it’s not the most obvious of vacation places in Malaysia, it’s well worth a visit if you’re interested in history or are visiting to see the graves and memorials here.

The city itself has plenty of cheap markets and places to eat, and is a gateway to other significant attractions like the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, one of Malaysia famous places. Here, you can get up close to rescued orangutans who are being rehabilitated. There’s also the Turtle Islands Park.

Getting to Sandakan: Located on Borneo, the quickest way to get there is to fly.

Top Attraction to visit: Sandakan Memorial Park

Top place to stay:  Sabah Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices

Looking for the easiest way to get around Malaysia to these great places? Find our long-distance taxi service here . It can take you door-to-door anywhere in peninsular Malaysia.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

We hope you found somewhere just right for you in this Malaysia tourism place list. Read more about other destinations in Malaysia or find the best time to visit Malaysia here or the best things to do here. Looking for places to visit in Malaysia in 2 – 4 days? Read our itineraries here  and find our ultimate article to planning your trip to Malaysia here.

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Wow, Very beautiful places I must visit this year. Love from Pakistan

It’s worth it!

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Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

The most popular places to visit in Malaysia are stunning — and the country's excellent infrastructure makes getting to them relatively painless.

Although Malaysia is always ranked well among the most visited countries in Asia, China usually steals the limelight and #1 spot. Long-term budget travelers often shun Malaysia as being "too expensive" (mostly because alcohol does cost more than in Thailand). Meanwhile, short-term vacationers in Southeast Asia seem to skip Malaysia for lack of time.

But Malaysia has a lot of beauty, diversity, and adventure on offer, as showcased by these tempting top destinations.

Kuala Lumpur

You'll most likely fly into Kuala Lumpur when traveling to Malaysia, so this one's a no-brainer. But unlike some other big cities in Asia where travelers arrive and get out of town as soon as possible, Kuala Lumpur is a worthwhile destination of its own.

The mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influence means you'll have no shortage of culinary exploits in Malaysia's capital city . The cultural diversity is a big part of Kuala Lumpur's allure. Take a short walk or jump on the extensive train network and you can see the delights of numerous cultures.

Kuala Lumpur has no shortage of unique neighborhoods to explore . Interesting sights such as the Petronas Towers , the Perdana Botanical Garden, and the Menara KL Tower provide plenty of enjoyable distractions before you head farther afield in Malaysia.

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Malaysians are proud of their big island on the west coast — and they should be! The colonial city of Georgetown was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has plenty to offer in the way of museums, a seaside fort, historic homes, and most importantly, a famous street-food scene.

Numerous artists have left their marks in the form of murals along the streets of Georgetown. Cafes, shops, and things to do can be found dotted throughout.

Penang is considered one of the best places in Southeast Asia to sample delicious street food of all types. The waterfront esplanade known as Gurney Drive in Penang is lined with stalls and eateries for trying local Malay, Chinese, and Indian treats , among others.

The Perhentian Islands

Backpackers and budget travelers love Malaysia's Perhentian Islands , especially Perhentian Kecil — the smaller of the two islands — where fine sand and excellent snorkeling/diving fill the day before parties start at night.

Nearby Perhentian Besar — the big island — caters more to families, couples, and travelers who are willing to spend more to enjoy the blue water and skip some of the partying. Regardless of the island you choose, getting to the Perhentians requires taking a speedboat. There are a few challenges for setting up shop on the islands .

The Perhentian Islands are very seasonal . Accommodation can be difficult to find on Perhentian Kecil in July, the peak month, but the islands are mostly empty during the winter months due to rain and stormy seas.

Malaysian Borneo

The option to exchange dirty concrete for green rainforests and abundant wildlife is only a cheap, quick flight away ! Visitors to Malaysia often stick to the mainland and forget about the natural wonders on earth's third-largest island only a short hop away.

The Malaysian part of Borneo is divided into two states: Sarawak in the south and Sabah in the north. Both have different vibes and charms . The Rainforest World Music Festival held outside of Kuching each summer is one of the most exciting music-and-culture events in Southeast Asia.

From endangered orangutans to rainforest canopy walks and some of the best diving in the world, Malaysian Borneo should definitely be a part of any trip to Malaysia.

Spelled locally as "Melaka," Malaysia's Peranakan city of Malacca is a worthwhile stop for cultural, historical, and colonial sites . UNESCO even declared Malacca a World Heritage Site in 2008.

Visitors are rarely disappointed by the old town in Malacca. If nothing else, the relaxed vibe is pleasant enough to keep people around for a few days. The close proximity to Kuala Lumpur makes getting there by bus easy. Train isn't an option in Malacca.

Tip: Many shops and museums close in Malacca on Tuesdays — plan your visit accordingly!

Taman Negara

Westend61 / Getty Images

Taman Negara literally means "national park" in Malay, and well, that's what it is! Taman Negara is Malaysia's oldest national park and is considered to be one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests. A long canopy walkway gives visitors a chance to see life high in the trees that normally isn't visible from the ground.

You can enjoy waterfalls and beautiful trekking, bird spotting, rafting, fishing, night safaris, and there's even a chance to see wild elephants — if you're very lucky. Tourists sleep across the river in Kuala Tahan and then take cheap boats to the park entrance.

Some serious guided trekking is available in Taman Negara as is caving.

Cameron Highlands

Malaysia's green Cameron Highlands are one of the few places in Southeast Asia where you'll actually want a jacket or warm blanket at night. After sweating across tropical climates, you may appreciate the change of climate.

The Cameron Highlands are like nowhere else in Malaysia. You'll see plenty of lush scenery, tour beautiful tea plantations, and enjoy access to decent hiking trails that weave through plantations and around volcanoes.

Strawberry farms, butterfly gardens, and flower greenhouses are all enjoyable distractions to be found in the Cameron Highlands. The climate provides good conditions for growing fresh vegetables and producing delicious local honey.

Tioman Island

Located on Malaysia's east coast not too far from Singapore, Tioman Island is a different kind of island destination . Accommodation and excellent diving are surprisingly inexpensive; development is relatively minimal for such a nice island. Abundant nature and scenery make up for the island's severe shortcomings in the culinary department.

Tioman is carved into many different beaches; you'll have to choose when arriving by boat. Some beaches are secluded and surrounded by jungle. ABC Beach is arguably the most popular beach, particularly for budget travelers. Moving between beaches by boat is the regular option, unless you're up for a jungle hike through the interior.

Tioman Island enjoys duty-free status just as Langkawi does, but don't even consider taking your tax-free liquor across the border into Singapore !

simonlong / Getty Images

Located off the northwest corner of Malaysia, Pulau Langkawi is one of the top island destinations in Malaysia for both foreign tourists and Malaysians.

With an airport and ferries connecting it to the mainland, as well as a large tourist infrastructure, Langkawi could unfairly be called Malaysia's version of Phuket, the busiest island in Thailand.

Langkawi has many tourist attractions on offer such as Malaysia's largest indoor aquarium, a cable car, and the Sky bridge that allows views across the island. Unfortunately, the drone of jet skis cause the busiest beaches to be less serene. Duty-free status means that beer is sometimes barely more expensive than bottled water!

Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi can be found for as cheap as US $20! Getting to the island is fast and inexpensive .

Selangor actually describes Malaysia's most developed and populated state that leads up to Kuala Lumpur's urban sprawl. Here you'll find a Formula One racetrack, the National Zoo of Malaysia, and enormous theme parks including an indoor snow park.

Selangor is busy and booming; shopping malls sprawl in many directions. When you can't possibly shop anymore, head to the nearby Genting Highlands — Malaysia's version of Vegas perched on top of a mountain. The First World Hotel and Plaza is the world's largest hotel with 10,500 rooms and a theme park.

But Selangor isn't just about concrete and glowing signs: The famous Batu Caves there are a Hindu shrine with the largest statue of Lord Murugan (the god of war) in the world. The Batu Caves draw large crowds, especially during the Thaipusam holiday .

When you're ready to be wooed by nature, the abundance of fireflies along the river in Kuala Selangor is a dazzling spectacle worth seeing!

The Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

Top Islands in Southeast Asia

Weather in Malaysia: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

Taman Negara in Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Where Is Kuala Lumpur?

The Best Time to Visit Malaysia

July in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Malaysia's Perhentian Islands: Pocket Paradise

June in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Langkawi, Malaysia Travel Guide

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

The Banana Pancake Trail

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Asia

Southeast Asia Countries to Travel

Important Tips for Malaysia's Perhentian Islands

9 of the best places to go in Malaysia

Jan 29, 2024 • 8 min read

From the top food destinations to getting away from it all in the highlands, here are the best places to visit in Malaysia © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Split across two different land masses, Malaysia instantly poses a dilemma. Do you visit Peninsular Malaysia, which borders Thailand to the north and Singapore down south? Or do you head across the South China Sea to Borneo – a jungly island shared by Malaysia, Indonesia and the Kingdom of Brunei? 

Good news: both sides of Malaysia have soft sandy beaches and snorkel-worthy coves, though Malaysian Borneo has superior access to marine life. Borneo is also the best pick for jungle trekking, though you can explore national parks and hilly hiking terrain across Peninsular Malaysia, too – like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands . Many parks and beauty spots are almost on top of the cities, making Peninsular Malaysia an excellent choice for families who want to spot hornbills by day, but bed down in modern comfort.

Peninsular Malaysia is also where you'll find the buzz. Gastronomes, shoppers and museum hounds can enjoy their fill in cosmopolitan Kuala Lumpur , food-forward Penang  and cultural jigsaw Melaka . Plot your own path with a little help from our list of the best places to go in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is the best place to go for a whirlwind tour 

If you have grand ambitions but limited time, head to Kuala Lumpur. Parts of KL feel like a quintessential capital city, with chic shopping malls (like Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC), a competitive cocktail scene and a sci-fi skyline – the Petronas Towers rise up like twin rockets, while Menara KL glows like a futuristic lighthouse (head to the 300m-high (984ft) sky deck for an expansive view). But KL offers more than fast-paced urban commotion. 

KL's city swagger comes accompanied by nature and history, courtesy of time-worn temples, kopitiam (traditional coffee houses), and rainforests almost side by side with high-rise buildings. Places of worship like scarlet multi-story Thean Hou Temple and ornate Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad inspire contemplation and wonder.

If you're looking for places to visit in Malaysia in three days, KL has day-trip potential, too. Listen to birdsong at KL Forest Eco Park , picnic by a waterfall at the Forest Research Institute ; and less than an hour's drive away is Mah Meri Cultural Village , where you can immerse yourself in indigenous Orang Asli art and history. 

Encounter pristine nature in Gunung Mulu National Park

Remarkably rocky, tremendously old and a theater for eye-popping natural spectacles, Gunung Mulu is arguably Malaysia's best national park. Between Gunung Mulu (2376m/7795ft) and Gunung Api (1710m/5610ft) are old-growth forests, limestone pinnacles and deep caves, home to millions of bats that take flight every twilight – watch the drama unfold at Deer Cave . 

Where to begin exploring? DIY experiences include the Mulu canopy walk (a suspended ladder through the treetops), an easy ramble to Paku Waterfall or the Botanical Heritage Loop Trail.

If you have tough hiking boots and even tougher endurance, book a guide and tackle the three-day Pinnacles trek. The climbs are steep, but you'll be rewarded by panoramic views of dense jungle spiked with fins of limestone. 

Penang is the top destination for food, drink and sensory pleasures

Penang's foodie status is uncontested. Travelers flock from across Malaysia (and beyond) to experience Gurney Drive's seafood restaurants, slurp Penang laksa at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls , and follow their noses to barbecued seafood at the Chew Jetties . But even beyond the sizzle of char kway teow (rice noodles with prawns, eggs and more), Penang can tickle your senses.

Inhale the tang of 500 herbs and aromatics at Tropical Spice Garden . Listen to the chatter of macaques at Penang National Park , the country's smallest. Gawp at the architectural splendor of Khoo Kongsi clubhouse and the intricately carved Pinang Peranakan Mansion . Alternatively, get bang up to date with contemporary art at Hin Bus Station .  

Tip for timing your visit: Penang is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia in December, when the west coast enjoys good weather while winds batter the east. 

Kuching is the perfect urban-jungle mash-up

We hear the dilemma: you want access to nature without committing to a tent in the jungle. And you want to experience the buzz of a Malaysian city without the high-octane hubbub of KL. Kuching , the capital of Bornean state Sarawak, is your happy medium. 

Kuching is a launchpad to Borneo's glorious wilderness. From here, you can easily meet orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre , or day-trip to Bako National Park to look for bearded pigs and proboscis monkeys.

But before stepping beyond the city limits, let Kuching work its charms. Stroll the waterfront promenade, where you can see views of Kuching's architectural treasury: the Astana (palace) and its trim gardens, the State Assembly  and the swirling Darul Hana pedestrian bridge. Admire Chinese temples, browse the weekend market and learn the history of Sarawak's White Rajas at hilltop Fort Margherita . 

Pulau Perhentian are the best islands for sunshine and snorkeling

Mentioning the Perhentians to Malaysian people elicits a longing smile. The Perhentian Islands are synonymous with brilliant beaches and marine life, plus there's a party scene to keep beach bums dancing until the wee hours. The trick is to find your perfect beach.

Searching for spectacular sunsets? Head to Coral Bay. Green turtles? The turtle project on Main Beach. Late-night beach parties? Long Beach. There are numerous beaches where you can go sea kayaking and snorkel among parrotfish and giant clams; hardened divers can go deeper to visit wrecks and commune with clownfish, reef sharks and stingrays. Time your visit for dry season between March and October (but avoid July, when crowds reach their peak).  

Melaka is a cultural smorgasbord 

Nowhere in Malaysia is the tumult of past colonial rule felt more strongly than in port cities, and Melaka is emblematic of this cultural collision.

Melaka is perched on Peninsular Malaysia's west coast, and successive colonists (Portuguese, Dutch, British) vied for control over this trading port and maritime waystation. Today, Melaka harbors a number of variegated food cultures, a hodge-podge of architecture and alluring night markets.

Glimpse Portuguese history by clambering aboard the replica Flor de la Mar ship and sampling baked fish at Medan Portugis. Time-travel forward to Dutch rule by touring the Stadthuys (now a history museum) and salmon-pink Christ Church . Other cornerstones of history are "China Hill" cemetery and Peranakan (Straits Chinese) mansions, notably the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum . 

Melaka's multidimensional cultures have helped fuel a roaring tourist trade. Colorful trishaws offer joyrides and history tours, while Jonker Walk Night Market is the evening's entertainment, offering everything from open-air karaoke to nibbling on Nyonya zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings).

Take refreshing upland hikes in the Cameron Highlands

Malaysia's most famous hill stations snooze among the vivid green tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands . Temperatures seldom stray higher than 30°C (86°F), attracting locals and tourists alike to cool off in these 4265ft to 6000ft (1300m to 1829m) heights. Many folks pick strawberries at Raaju's Hill or make a beeline (sorry) for the honey farm – but there are more authentic natural encounters in the Camerons. 

Take a guided hike with Eco Cameron to marvel at orchids and hunt for the whopping rafflesia flower. You can also go alone: numbered hiking trails extend right from main towns Brinchang and Tanah Rata (ask locally about trail safety, as robberies have been reported on some routes). Inevitably, you'll reward your outdoor exertions by sipping a cup of tea (or three) at a plantation. Boh Sungei Palas has some of the best views, with Boh Tea Garden a close second. 

Ipoh is Malaysia's best unsung destination

To Malay people, Ipoh is deservedly famous. For one, Ipoh's sweet, creamy white coffee is legendary. The town is the capital of Perak, a region of past tin-mining wealth that spawned colonial follies like Kellie's Castle . Then there are the regional delicacies – chicken bean sprouts, bean curd pudding – that bring KL day trippers piling into Ipoh eateries. 

But for international travelers, Ipoh has remained firmly off the map – overlooked on the rush between KL and Penang. So if you're looking for unique places to visit in Malaysia, buck the trend and head to Ipoh. Its hilly outskirts are jeweled with cave temples; statue-studded Sam Poh Tong has a crimson pavilion secreted away among the limestone cliffs. In town, street art by famed Lithuanian muralist Ernest Zacharevic splashes the walls, shophouses on once-notorious Concubine Lane retain their antique flavor, and the train station has attracted the nickname Taj Mahal (you be the judge). 

Tioman Island is the best place to unwind

Picture it: palm trees and hibiscus flowers swaying in the sea breeze, and perhaps a sea breeze cocktail making its way into your hand as you settle in at a bar. This 52.5 sq mi (136 sq km) island begs you to unwind, embrace a slower pace and maybe get that tie-dye T-shirt.

Your only burden? Picking a village where you can settle down, uncrick your neck and maybe catch a wave or two. Kampung Juara is the best surf spot, with two wide, sandy beaches, plenty of places offering board and kayak hire, and, better yet, a turtle sanctuary on Mentawak Beach. Kampung Salang is backpacker central, with access to popular shores like white-sand Monkey Beach and occasional beach parties. To feel far from the beaten track, head to tucked-away villages like quiet, traditional Kampung Mukut . But wherever you sling your rucksack, make time for marine encounters. Tioman has extensive coral reefs (and abundant manta rays), and March to October is prime time for divers.

This article was first published February 2022 and updated January 2024

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Exploring Malaysia: 20 Best Places and Most Unique Experiences

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: April 1, 2024

Malaysia in Southeast Asia is a fascinating country with vibrant cities, a mixture of heritage and modern architecture, glorious sandy beaches, tea plantations, delicious food, lush jungles and diverse wildlife.

West Malaysia contains the country’s major cities (Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Georgetown Penang) and is the most popular area for tourists to visit on their first trip to Malaysia.

The cities offer a look at the country’s past and present culture and history and are great starting points for extended trips in Malaysia.

In East Malaysia, you will find quite a different setting, for it is here that Borneo, the world’s third-largest island, has its home.

Separated from West Malaysia by the South China Sea, Borneo is less populated than its neighbour, with biodiverse rainforests, indigenous wildlife, incredible diving spots, and some of the best beaches in Malaysia.

It also offers terrific Malaysian experiences, including mountain climbing, scuba diving, and observing Borneo wildlife in its natural environments.

Malaysia is an incredible travel destination that I have visited twice. My first trip was brief, as it was part of my three-month round-the-world trip, and I only got to experience Penang and Kuala Lumpur. The next time, I was determined to see more of this amazing country and stayed for one month.

I’ve now seen quite a chunk of Malaysia for myself; however, I asked fellow travellers for their contributions to places I have yet to visit. Read on for a guide to Malaysia’s best places and experiences to inspire you to travel to Malaysia in the future.

This article may contain affiliate links – For more information, please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy.

Table of Contents

Malaysia Map

Best Cities to Discover in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia and has an international airport around an hour’s drive away.

Also fondly known as KL, the city is one of Asia’s most popular places to visit, whether for a few days or longer. Like its bordering neighbour, Singapore, it is often used as a stopover destination; however, Malaysia and Singapore offer travellers very different experiences .

I have been to Kuala Lumpur twice for two nights on both occasions. On my first visit, I wasn’t overly keen on how busy it was, but the second time around, I loved it.

I went up to the top of the Petronas Towers , which is one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur. I took in the views from the KL Tower and walked back down to the city through the Forest Eco Park. It will surprise you with its natural forest setting and canopy walkways.

The newest attraction in Kuala Lumpur is the Merdeka Tower, which has Southeast Asia’s highest observation deck, The View at 118. It has now become the second-highest tower in the world after Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

Batu Caves is a great place to see. Hewn into the limestone rocks, this Hindu shrine is one of the most important to the Hindu faith, with thousands of Tamils making a yearly pilgrimage to it. Climb the 272 colourful steps to see inside this incredible temple and meet the naughty monkeys who call it home.

Visiting Kuala Lumpur with teenagers is also great fun as there are plenty of things to do to keep them amused, from indoor skydiving at iFly Malaysia to the thrilling amusement park at Sunway Lagoon.

Discover Chinatown

One place not to miss in KL is Chinatown. If you want a bargain, visit Petaling Street (but be prepared to barter hard. The stall holders are not friendly!). For street art lovers, head to Kwai Chai Hong , a little alleyway with beautiful wall murals. Afterwards, head to one of the many nearby eateries for authentic Chinese/Malay food. Or head to Brickfield’s in Little India to try street food.

While in KL, I stayed at The Face Suites and Ascott Star . The properties are both self-contained apartments with rooftop swimming pools, perfect for life in the city.

Another great place to stay is Element by Westin , a 10-minute walk to the Petronas Towers. 

What was the weather like? It was hot and humid in April and July, with temperatures in the highs of 35°C.

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Penang is one hour or 4 hours by road

On the island of Penang, the Unesco heritage site of George Town is the most popular place in Malaysia for tourists, primarily for delicious street food and unique street art.

I ended up in Penang by chance as it was a last-minute booking instead of travelling to Bali. After I told people I was heading to Penang, I got a mixed response – some loved the city, but a lot didn’t – what had I done? It turns out that Penang was everything I wanted it to be and more, and I ended up falling in love with it!

Gritty, friendly, and real, Penang retains its true identity and rich history despite being a busy tourist destination due to the famous street art in George Town .

Explore the History and Culture of Penang

I stayed in Penang for three nights on two different trips and found it fascinating on both occasions. There are so many attractions in Penang you will probably wish you had stayed longer; however, three nights is a decent amount of time to see all the main sights.

Clan temples, using artefacts and pictures, tell the story of life for Chinese communities in the 19th century, and Chew Jetty on the waterfront allows us to glimpse local life on the water. In contrast, heritage mansions such as Pinang Peranakan Mansion and Cheong Fatt Tzu Mansion show us how life was lived for the wealthy at the turn of the 19th century. They are a great way of learning about Penang’s historic Chinese and Peranakan culture.

If you want a change of scenery, head to “The Habitat” rainforest on Penang Hill. It is the perfect place to escape the city’s blistering heat. Or take a morning stroll through Penang’s Botanical Gardens in George Town.

Where to Stay in Penang

While there are plenty of places to stay in George Town , I chose the beautiful 18th-century heritage hotel called The Blue Mansion . The hotel’s interior is of an eclectic Chinese style, with a facade and interior areas painted in a distinctive indigo-blue colour.

I also spent a few nights at Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Beach Resort in Batu Ferringhi. It is a great place to enjoy some sun, sea, and sand after the hustle and bustle of George Town.

What was the weather like? I visited in February on my first visit and in July on my second visit, and it was hot, sticky and dry in George Town (in the 30s) on both occasions. It was slightly cooler (but not by much) in the coastal area of Batu Ferringhi.

Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh by road takes 2 hour s .

I spent two nights in Ipoh following a stay at the Pangkor Laut Island Resort. Ipoh is the biggest city in Perak and is halfway between Lumut (the jumping-off point for Pangkor Island) and the Cameron Highlands, so it was the perfect place to explore en route between the two locations.

The drive time between Lumut and Ipoh is around 75 minutes. If you are coming from Kuala Lumpur, the fast train to Ipoh takes around 3 hours, or you can join an organised tour .

Ipoh is small, very walkable, and divided into old and new towns. Old Ipoh is the best part of town to visit because you can step inside heritage house museums, see important colonial buildings on the heritage trail and enjoy Malaysian dishes in cafes tucked away down tiny alleyways.

Discover Ipoh’s Street Art

Besides those attractions, one of the best reasons to visit Ipoh is to see fabulous street art.

Seek out the street art murals by Ernest Zacharevic (the same artist whose work is in George Town) before photographing Mural Arts Lane in the new part of town where the artwork is more minimal.

Ipoh exudes a charming old-world ambience you can fully savour at the city’s numerous quaint cafes. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the iconic Ipoh White Coffee, a sweet coffee originating here, and the delicious custard tarts similar to Portugal’s pastel de nata tarts.

A short drive from town is where you can visit Ipoh’s unique cave temples formed from limestone rock and still used as places of worship. They are adorned with statues, altars and ornaments, and one even has a beautiful lakeside setting that is a delight to wander around. They are a must-see when you come to Ipoh.

For cave enthusiasts, Gua Tempurung is a short drive away and is the largest cave in Peninsula Malaysia. Walk inside its vast caverns or, for the more adventurous, take part in a guided pot-holing activity!

What was the weather like? In July, it was very hot and humid.

Port Dickson

Kuala Lumpur to Port Dickson by road takes 90 minutes.

While it might not feature at the top of the international traveller’s list, thousands of Malaysian locals can’t be wrong.

Considered one of the best places to escape the hustle and bustle of the country’s concrete jungles, the seaside town of  Port Dickson  is a favourite haunt for local Malaysian tourists looking to escape for a weekend or two. 

About a 90-minute drive from chaotic Kuala Lumpur, this budget-friendly beauty used to be a busy trading post before it developed into a tourist hotspot.

Nowadays, you’ll find several high-end resorts dotting the coastline, including the most famous resort in Malaysia, Lexis Hibiscus Port Douglas, a hotel complex shaped like the national flower of Malaysia – the hibiscus. It also boasts two Guinness World Records for the most swimming pools in a resort (a startling 643) and the most overwater villas in a resort (522). 

Exploring Port Dickson

But hanging out in Port Dickson doesn’t need to be within the confines of a luxury hotel. The area is jam-packed with things to do to suit any travel style.

From crazy upside-down houses and art galleries to a cowboy-themed indoor theme park and an interesting observatory, you can keep the entire family entertained.

If natural pursuits are more your thing, Port Dickson delivers in droves.

You can hang out at the picturesque beach of the Blue Lagoon or spend hours hiking in the thickly forested surroundings of Tanjung Tuan. The 80-hectare nature reserve offers birdwatching, sandy beaches and an incredible lighthouse, the crowning glory of the reserve, which helps to steer ships into the serene Strait of Malacca.

What was the weather like? In March the weather was lovely and quite hot.

Words and Images by Travel Scribes.

Kuala Lumpur to Melaka by road takes 2 hour s .

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Malaysia, you won’t want to miss out on the vibrant town of Melaka (also spelt Malacca).

Melaka is a port city only about an hour and a half south of Kuala Lumpur and is home to a UNESCO heritage site.

It’s one of the best places in Malaysia to learn more about the interesting cultural history of this country, with Melaka having periods ruled by the Malay, Dutch, English and Portuguese thanks to its strategic location for trade.

It’s also a great city to explore, with most of the interesting historical attractions within walking distance of each other.

I loved exploring this place on foot, and it’s easy to come across many fascinating religious temples, old forts and museums. I also recommend a Melaka River cruise.

Exploring the City of Melaka

Melaka has lively night markets on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights on Jonker Street. This is a must-do if you are in town over the weekend. This is where to head for dining, souvenirs, handicrafts and street food.

Outside the centre, there is also an array of attractions, like Taman Mini Malaysia, which offers information about the various Malay states’ cultures, including replicas of traditional homes, games, dancing, and cooking.

It is easy to reach Melaka by bus or on a tour from Kuala Lumpur . There are also direct buses from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

For a good value place to lay your head, we enjoyed staying at the Imperial Heritage Hotel. It’s within walking distance of the main attractions and has a handy shopping centre across the road.

What was the weather like? Melaka is hot and humid all year round, with the most rain in April and October. 

Words by Dive Into Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur to Sekinchan by road takes 1 hour 30 minutes .

The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, might be one of the most impressive cities in Malaysia; however, after spending a few days in its insufferable noise, pollution, and crowds, we knew we had to go somewhere more peaceful.

After much research, we finally settled on  Sekinchan , a small fishing village 1.5 hours away and one of Malaysia’s best-hidden gems .

If you don’t have your own car, you may want to consider renting a bicycle from one of the shops in town to explore the surrounding area.

Although Sekinchan is only a small fishing village, its most iconic features are the lush rice paddy fields that stretch farther than the eye can see. 

Cycling through the Paddy Fields

We spent the morning cycling up and down these picturesque paddy fields and enjoying the simple things in life. When we had enough, we went to cool off in the Pantai Redang, Sekinchan’s only beach.

Not only was this beach peaceful, but we caught glimpses of local lives and discovered the Sekinchan Wishing Tree.

We couldn’t finish a visit to Sekinchan without trying their seafood. We ended the night at Wan Lau Seafood, sampling some delicious oyster egg omelette and clams before returning to our hotel.

If you plan on visiting Sekinchan, we recommend you stay at Padi Box as we did.

It is a unique accommodation in Sekinchan made with only recycled freight containers. This place is eco-friendly, and the creative use of freight containers makes it very decorative!

What was the weather like? In March, the weather was consistently hot and humid.

Words and images by Living Out Lau.

Best Cities to Discover in Borneo

Flying from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching takes 1 hour and 40 minutes .

Flying to is the best way to arrive in Kuching, even for those already elsewhere in Borneo.

It’s the only way to Sarawak’s capital from Peninsular Malaysia, and passports are necessary even though it’s a domestic trip. Thankfully, the flights are short and inexpensive, and in my experience, the city is very chilled.

See Orangutans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve

It’s super close to nature, and even when I didn’t feel like spending a weekend on an orangutan trek through the jungle, I could (and did) take a detour from the airport to Semenggoh Nature Reserve to watch the feeding of the Bornean orangutan.

Beaches aren’t far away either, but seeing primates scale the trees and tear fruit apart was something else altogether, even from a short distance.

The city isn’t super photogenic, though there are old Chinese shophouses, temples, mosques and colonial forts along the river. However, it is cheap and easy to get around using the Grab ride-sharing app, which means more money to spend on meals.

Eating out in Kuching

You’ll discover fantastic food in Kuching that rivals Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, and Penang, making it a heaven for food lovers. Some dishes are unique to the city because of the Chinese migrants who settled there, and they incorporate local ingredients.

I stayed at the Meritin Hotel in the “Golden Triangle.” I was a block away from restaurants serving delicious dishes like kolo mee (curly noodles with minced pork) and Sarawak laksa ( a spicy prawn noodle dish. Specialities like stir-fried midin (fiddleheads) and Lui cha fan (herbal tea salad with rice) were just a short ride away. I had no regrets about going home a few pounds heavier!

What was the weather like? It was hot and relatively dry in June, but short rain showers can still occur, and I experienced one during the trip. From April to October, there’s a better chance of seeing the orangutans at the feeding stations.

Words and images by Rambling Feet.

Kota Kinabalu

Flying from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu takes 2 hours and 35 minutes .

Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of the Sabah region of Malaysian Borneo. Though it might not seem super exciting initially, I was amazed at the number of  things you can do in Kota Kinabalu . I initially planned to stay for two days to check out the highlights, but I quickly extended my stay to over a week!

Kota Kinabalu has some lovely beaches; Tanjung Aru Beach for sunset is a must. It also has impressive mosques. The Pink Mosque and Masjid Bandaraya Mosque are two of the most beautiful I’ve seen.

A must-see is the Mari Mari Cultural Village, which showcases the lives and history of the indigenous Mari Mari tribe of Borneo – think head hunters and warriors!

Jesselton Pier is the jumping-off point in Kota Kinabalu for the 20-minute ferry ride to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Here, you can spend the day on a beautiful beach and snorkel. The marine park has several islands to visit, including Gaya Island, home to Bunga Raya Island Resort and Spa , a paradisical resort offering a luxurious stay at a reasonable price point.

Getting to Kota Kinabalu

Flying into Kota Kinabalu is easy from Kuala Lumpur and other cities in Borneo.

If you’re already exploring Sabah, you can fly in directly from Sandakan or take a bus from any major city in the area. Getting here from other parts of Borneo can be a little trickier and a long day as you may be crossing the border with Brunei, so I recommend flying instead.

There are plenty of hotels in Kota Kinabalu to suit all budgets. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is a good choice if you want to splash the cash, whereas DreamTel is good for tighter budgets.

What was the weather like?

The weather at the end of March was great; it’s the end of the rainy season, so you still get some rainy afternoons, but they were scarce. It’s a great time to visit Borneo as you avoid the heat of the summer and the heavy rains of the rainy season, but everything looks extremely lush since it’s just ending.

Words by No Hurry To Get Home.

Best Islands to Discover in Malaysia

Pangkor island.

Kuala Lumpur to Pangkor by road takes 4 hours

I think Pangkor Island is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia, as the island is still an unknown destination for foreign tourists, meaning you have the island to yourself.

A dense jungle covers most of the island, so wildlife thrives here. One day, when we returned from the beach, a family of monkeys were sitting on our bungalow roof! We also saw the hornbill, a beautiful black bird with a massive yellow beak. I loved that we could spot wildlife so easily on this island!

Discover the Delights of Pangkor Island

If you’re looking for a Malaysian island to explore off the tourist trail, with beautiful beaches, thriving wildlife, and many great attractions, I would 100% recommend Pangkor!

There are many  things to do on Pangkor Island . You can go to the beach, rent a kayak, go snorkelling, or rent a scooter and explore the island.

Pangkor has a beautiful mosque on the water, a quirky Chinese temple with a great viewpoint, and an old fisherman village.

Getting to Pangkor Island

It’s easy to get to Pangkor as it’s only a 4-hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur and a 5-hour bus ride from Penang.

You must take the bus towards Lumut, where the ferry to Pangkor Island leaves every 45 minutes.

We stayed in a Pangkor Sandy Beach Resort bungalow, and I cannot recommend this place enough.

It’s very cheap, the bungalows are clean, and the owners are very kind. It’s best to find a place to stay on the island’s West side; there are many restaurants, and you will be close to the island’s best beach, Coral Beach.

If you are looking for a luxurious stay, Pangkor Laut Island Resort is a short boat ride away. It offers overwater bungalows and hillside villas, plus top-rated restaurants, a pool, tennis courts, and first-class service.

What was the weather like? In August, it was just lovely. Blue skies every day except for one morning when we had a crazy thunderstorm.

Words by Worldwide Walkers.

Perhentian Islands

The flight from Kuala Lumpur takes one hour and 10 minutes, and then there is a boat ride to the islands.

Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar, the Perhentian islands, are two beautiful tropical islands located about 20 km off the coast of northeast Malaysia, close to Thailand.

My girlfriend and I loved staying on the spectacular Perhentian Kecil, the smaller island with perfect white beaches and crystal clear water offering excellent scuba diving, snorkelling from the beach and lovely hiking trails.

Both islands are beautiful, but Perhentian Kecil has a bit more of a lively vibe.

We got to Kuala Besut by bus from Thailand, but it is only an hour’s flight from Kuala Lumpur, and you take a speedboat to the islands.

There are fantastic guesthouses and resorts around Petani Beach and Long Beach. We arrived early enough to enjoy the first day on the beach and snorkel!

Discover the Underwater World in the Perhentian Islands

Long Beach is a beautiful sandy beach, and swimming in the warm, crystal-clear water was fantastic! From this point, we walked to Coral Bay beach on a jungle path, and there were some excellent basic restaurants where we could have lunch.

It is a quick walk back to Long Beach to watch the sunset. There are plenty of bars on the beach, and after dark, we sat on the beach with a drink, enjoying the choreographed fire dancing and poi fire show on the sand.

The diving around the island is fantastic, with warm, clear water, beautiful corals and various fascinating marine life.

We enjoyed  scuba diving in the Perhentian Islands . Our favourite dive sites were Tokong Laut, a beautiful tropical reef rich in marine life, and the sunken freighter Sugar Wreck, largely intact and lying in 20m of water. We had a lot of fun snorkelling and hiking on the island.

I recommend renting a kayak and snorkelling equipment, paddling between Long Beach and Coral Bay, and stopping to snorkel and observe reef sharks, barracudas, and beautiful corals and fish that thrive in these waters.

What is the weather like in the Perhentian Islands?

We have been to the Perhentian Islands in  July  more than once; the weather was hot and sunny with calm seas and little rain, and the diving was good. 

June to August is peak season; the island gets very busy, especially over the weekends, and accommodation can be fully booked. 

November to March  is monsoon season, and the whole island basically shuts down due to bad weather and rough seas.

Words and images by Stingy Nomads.

Langkawi Island

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi is 1 hour and 10 minutes .

When I see photos of white sandy beaches, tropical rainforests, and beautiful islands, wanderlust strikes, and Langkawi triggers that emotion.

Langkawi’s proximity to mainland Malaysia and Thailand makes it an accessible location, with many beautiful Langkawi hotels just waiting to welcome visitors to this tropical paradise.

We spent a wonderful day on the beach, enjoying water sports. Then, we lounged on the soft sand while sipping our drinks and watching some fire-dancing shows. At dusk, the beach is lit by flaming lamps and tabletop candles, adding a romantic rustic vibe.

Ride the cable car

Langkawi is also famous for its sky cable, The Langkawi Skycab , which lifts you above the virgin rainforest’s dense canopy.

The peak is 708m above sea level, where viewing platforms may trigger your fear of heights, especially when you step on the transparent floor.

On clear days, you can see the coastline of southern Thailand beyond the glimmering Andaman Sea.

Surrounded by turquoise waters, its interior combines picturesque paddy fields and jungle-clad hills. Whether you are after a jungle adventure, time on the beach, or a shopping spree, Langkawi is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

What was the weather like? In August, it was warm and sunny.

Words by Go Around Philippines .

Kapas Island

The flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu is one hour. The timings for travel by road are mentioned below.

Kapas Island is not as well-known as some of its neighbours and is a bit of a hidden island in Malaysia, a few kilometres off the east coast.

Due to the monsoon season, visiting Kapas Island from mid-October through to March is impractical, so my stay in May was timed perfectly.

Getting from Kuala Lumpur to Kapas Island is a long travel day. I took a bus to Kuala Terengganu (5 hours) before transferring to Merang (1 hour), where the boats regularly leave from Merang Jetty to Kapas Island. Day tours can be pre-booked from Kuala Terengganu.

Upon arrival at Kapas Island, you arrive at the sandy beach and walk to your accommodation. But you can take another boat further down the island if required, although it’s only a 30-minute walk from one end to the other.

Camping on the Beach

I stayed in my tent at Captain Longhouse, one of three beach campsites on the island (budget options). A few other accommodation options cater to both mid-range and luxury options.

The island is quiet during the week, but many domestic tourists visit the island on the weekends. However, with snorkelling available across the island, you can always find peace in the water.

I loved all the coral, and while there were not very many fish, I saw turtles and blacktip reef sharks daily.

If you prefer diving, there are plenty of scuba companies to arrange a dive. Otherwise, it’s all about sticking to the beach, playing volleyball and other beach games, relaxing, and watching the sunset.

Regarding food, while camping, I brought snacks to the island and sampled the restaurants and bars. I would advise you to make any dinner reservations around lunchtime as the restaurants usually get supplies for that night in the afternoon.

What was the weather like? I had good weather in May. It was the perfect time to visit.

Words by Chur New Zealand .

Tioman Island

From Kuala Lumpur to Mersing Jetty by road is 4 hours, followed by a boat ride to the island.

Tioman Island is the largest of Malaysia’s 64 volcanic islands and lies just off the east coast of the Malaysian peninsula. It is an absolute paradise with incredible snorkelling and diving opportunities.

It’s one of my favourite places in Malaysia, and I’ve never seen beaches like those on Tioman Island.

Of course, you’ll find other tourists here, but so far, Tioman has mainly been spared by the crowds that visit places like Langkawi or some of the nearby Thai Islands. 

Discover Paradise in the Tioman Islands

Tioman is sparsely populated, so you can always find a quiet spot. I’d highly recommend heading to Juara, a little secluded town with one of the island’s best beaches and a turtle project.

The road there is very narrow, and you should be careful if you’re exploring Tioman by scooter. If you’re not highly experienced on a scooter, you should hire a driver instead.

Tioman is all about water sports. It is the perfect spot to learn how to surf, go snorkelling or even try your hand at scuba diving.

Malaysia is affordable for getting a diving certification, and Tioman has one of the most amazing underwater worlds. I also enjoyed seeing the island’s waterfalls, which are the perfect way to refresh yourself after a day of exploring.

Tioman Island mainly has budget accommodation, and prices are reasonable. I’d recommend the  Beach Shack , which offers basic rooms but has an enviable location by the beach with fantastic sunrise views.

What was the weather like? June it was quite hot (around 30C constantly) with some rain but not very much. It was a good time to visit!

Words by Guide Your Travel .

Best Experiences to Discover in Malaysia

Visiting the cameron highlands.

From Kuala Lumpur by road takes 3 hours 30 minutes (the main road into and through the Cameron Highlands gets very busy, so expect delays and possibly additional time added to your trip).

You can also book a day tour from Kuala Lumpur to the Cameron Highlands.

Cameron Highlands is a great place to visit, with amazing landscapes and stunning panoramic views. It’s perfect if you want to explore the great outdoors and escape the heat for a few days!

Cameron Highlands are located along Malaysia’s main mountain range and 5000 feet above sea level. This means the temperature is noticeably cooler and wetter, setting it apart from the rest of Malaysia. It can be a welcome respite from the heat and humidity experienced in other parts of the country.

With acres and acres of green rolling hills, the region almost seems plucked from an English country scene. The difference is that tea plants grow on these hills, and Boh Tea Plantation is Malaysia’s biggest black tea producer. It’s just one of several plantations in the Cameron Highlands and a must-visit in Malaysia.

Boh Tea Plantation was the first set up in the Cameron Highlands. The Russell family from Scotland arrived in 1929 and set about cultivating the land and planting the tea shoots. You can visit either or both of the Boh Tea locations: the original tea plantation, where you can go on a factory tour and enjoy a cuppa in the outdoor cafe. The second is a tasting room on a hilltop with beautiful views.

Walking through the Tea Plantations

While at Boh, you can take a slow stroll or a longer hike through the tea plantation. The pathways are marked so you can’t get lost, and they will take you around the fields and through the jungle. On my visit, we were the only ones in the fields, and it was very tranquil – the only problem was the rain, which stopped our walk.

Another popular walking trail is through the Mossy Forest, although you will need a 4×4 and a guide to reach it. Other things to do in the Cameron Highlands include visiting one of the many strawberry farms, the butterfly and bee farm, or the Kea Farmers Market.

We stayed at the Cameron Highlands Resort , which was incredible. Golfers can also play a round on the resort’s golf course.

What was the weather like? July was cool with scattered showers. The daytime temperature was around 18 degrees Celsius. 

Diving in Sipadan, Borneo

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours 35 minutes – followed by a road and boat transfer.

When Jacques Cousteau endorses a place, it must be good. It was good enough for me when I packed my dive bag and went to Sipadan in the northeast of Borneo.

Sipadan is an island that looks similar to many other tropical islands. But people don’t come here for the palm trees or the sand. Sipadan’s true charms lie below the surface in an area known as one of the world’s best dive destinations.

From Semporna, I take a boat to Mabul Island, where I am staying with Scuba Junkie, one of the area’s resorts.

It is not a boat trip I care to remember – it is stormy, and our little boat almost gets lost. Mind you, I dare say Sipadan diving is worth every effort.

Discover the Underwater World of Sipadan

Diving in Sipadan is highly restricted, and only a set number of dive permits are distributed daily to the various dive resorts.

If you stay for a few nights, you can snatch one for a day. My persistence to dive in paradise promptly gets “rewarded” with an unfriendly triggerfish encounter before I finally see turtles galore, barracuda tornados, and, of course, sharks.

Even diving around Mabul island is an absolute feast for the eyes, and I discovered my love for muck-diving thanks to a bobtail squid barely bigger than my pinkie fingernail. 

On my way back, I meet Eddie, a bar owner in Semporna. He tells tales of the good old days when he met Jacques Cousteau and told him to “stay away” in no uncertain terms. I admire his candour and cannot help but think I may have done the same to protect this paradise and keep it to myself.

What was the weather like? July is usually considered the hottest month with the least amount of rain; however, we encountered a really bad storm! 

Words by The Very Hungry Mermaid .

Climbing Mount Kinabalu, Borneo

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours 35 minutes .

Climbing Borneo’s Mount Kinabalu is a big challenge. It is not for the faint-hearted and needs at least two full days to complete.

Mount Kinabalu rises 4096m out of the jungle of Sabah and is Malaysia’s tallest mountain. Climbing to Mount Kinabalu’s summit is one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done, but also one of the most rewarding.

On arrival at the park headquarters, all climbs are undertaken with a local guide assigned to each group.

The climb up the mountain starts at the Timpohon Gate at 1866m and continues for 6 km to the Pana Laban rest house at 2373m. It doesn’t sound too far, but this part took me around five hours.

Once at Pana Laban, it was time to rest my sore feet for the remainder of the afternoon before falling gratefully into bed as the sun went down. I was awake again at 2 am to prepare for the final climb to the summit.

Sunrise on Mount Kinabalu’s Summit

This part of the climb was cold and dark, which, combined with the thin air, made the last section even more difficult.

Standing at the top of the mountain on my birthday and watching the sunrise above the clouds made every bit of that hard work worth it.

Mount Kinabalu is around 2 hours from Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah. The company organising my climb also provided transfers before and after my climb, so we stayed at the Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centr e .

What was the weather like? In February, my weather was perfect – but only the day before, it was raining, and the poor people did the whole climb in the rain, so I am guessing it’s quite changeable at that time of the year.

Words by Josie Wanders.

Jungle Camping in the Kiulu Valley, Borneo

Malaysia is a front-runner for natural beauty, and a perfect example is Kiulu Valley in the state of Sabah in Borneo, a 60km taxi drive from Kota Kinabalu and the place we visited to experience our jungle trekking and camping trip.

The Kiulu River flows through this valley, and the riverbank was the perfect site to stay for a jungle camp. We stayed in one of the basic bamboo huts along the river bank.

Discovering Life in the Jungle

We trekked in the forest during the day, and a naturalist introduced us to the local plant life and shared traditional knowledge that is still widely used in Malaysia.

Our jungle camp provided us with an angling kit, and we tried our hand at fishing in the river. Call it beginner’s luck; we managed to catch a fish but found out it was more fun letting it go. We spent the evening participating in local music and dancing while enjoying Malay food for dinner.

The high point of our Kiulu experience had to be rafting in the Kiulu River, one of the world’s cleanest water bodies. Although there were many rapids, we rafted under trained instructors’ guidance, so we all stayed safe.

The clear green water splashing on us, the sinking feeling, the subsequent rise, and the resultant adrenaline rush are memories for life.

What was the weather like? In July, it was a little hot and humid during the day, but early mornings and nights were very pleasant.

Words by DelhiFunDos.

Best Wildlife Encounters in Malaysia

Deramakot forest reserve, borneo.

Would you like a chance to spot the elusive Clouded leopard in the wild, see Borneo pygmy elephants, or see a Bornean Orangutan?

Deramakot Forest Reserve in Borneo’s Malaysian state of Sabah is the best place on the island to spot some of the rarest  Borneo animals .

Discover the Wildlife in Borneo

I visited Deramakot twice in my quest to see a Clouded leopard. Before I finally spotted the elusive feline, I saw more wildlife in Deramakot than I could have imagined.

Almost every night, Pygmy elephants caused very welcome roadblocks (and photo opportunities) as they blissfully ignored our truck and refused to move off the road.

Other times, it would be Malayan Porcupines or Sunda skunks (yes, there are skunks in Asia!).  

On our night drives, we saw binturongs, marbled cats, slow lorises, and flying squirrels.

You’ll be amazed at how many flying animals there are in Borneo: Flying lemurs (Colugos), flying squirrels, flying frogs, flying lizards, and even flying snakes! Of course, these animals don’t actually fly, but they are all excellent gliders.

Another great thing about Deramakot is that it is off the tourist radar and never gets crowded. You can’t just ‘drop in’ to Deramakot.

The only way to visit this remote reserve is with a licenced tour operator. Whenever I go to Borneo, I always travel with Adventure Alternative Borneo. These guys were the first commercial outfit to bring wildlife watchers to Deramakot.

Deramakot Forest Accommodation

The accommodation in Deramakot Forest Reserve is limited to three surprisingly comfortable cottages. But there are no shops near Deramakot to pick up food or petrol, so your expedition will include all the supplies: a 4WD truck, a driver, a cook, your guide, and a wildlife spotter. Trust me, a visit to Deramakot is one of the most adventurous places you can visit in Malaysia. 

What was the weather like? It can rain absolutely any time in October, and when it rains, it pours. It’s one of the wettest places on earth. We had quite a few proper downpours during that week. Temperature-wise, it’s usually in the low 30s Celsius.

Words by The Wildlife Diaries.

Kinabatangan River, Borneo

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan is 2 hours 45 minutes .

We flew into Sandakan and then headed to Borneo’s area, known as the Kinabatangan River, for a wildlife adventure. Here, you can see orangutans and proboscis monkeys in the wild.

Discover the Wild Pygmy Elephants

While here, we found proboscis monkeys, orangutans, monitor lizards, macaques and many different birds. But what made this place truly unique were the Borneo pygmy elephants – the smallest elephants in Asia.

There are only 1,500 of these distinctly different elephants left in the wild. They evolved differently from the mainland elephants when the island of Borneo separated more than 300,000 years ago. They look like babies even when they’re fully grown.

You can take a day trip from Sandakan or stay in one of the river bank lodges – there are basic and luxury lodges available to spot the Borneo wildlife right from the lodge.

There is no National Park Fee to pay here, so you’ll have more money to take boat trips and explore the area.

Early morning and evening boat trips are the best time to spot wildlife in Borneo, and a night-time walk will also get you into the rainforest to see sights you might not usually notice!

It is fabulously peaceful here in the evening, and it is well worth spending at least one night here to wake up and experience the river at dawn.

What was the weather like? In July, the weather in Borneo was hot and sticky, with a bit of rain.

Danum Valley, Borneo

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours 35 minutes

One of my absolute favourite places in Malaysia is the Danum Valley in the Sabah region of Borneo, one of the last remaining areas of primaeval rainforest on the island and a fabulous place to see orangutans in the wild.  

There is only one place to stay inside the designated conservation area –  the all-inclusive Borneo Rainforest Lodge .

We arrived at the small airport in Lahad Datu and checked in at their air-conditioned offices before being whisked away in a comfortable car for the two-hour trip, mostly on dirt roads, to our accommodation.

Rainforest Accommodation

The lodge was fantastic, with a vast open-air lounge and restaurant overlooking a river and facing a heavily jungled escarpment.

The self-contained rooms are reached by a series of wooden walkways branching out from the main lodge. 

After relaxing for a while, we were taken on a guided walk along a nearby boardwalk. All of the hikes are accompanied by a guide so that you don’t get lost (all are included in the price).

That night, we took another leisurely walk to see nocturnal animals, including flying frogs.  

Jungle Trekking in Malaysia

We went on two long hikes the next day, starting on a canopy walkway high in the trees. We saw orangutans, red-leaf monkeys, and many birds.

Then, we took a long hike through the jungle to see the top of the escarpment. This was followed by a trip to a waterfall and a pool where fish nibbled the dead skin off our feet (freaky, but fun!).  

That night, we drove in the back of a truck with a huge spotlight to see more nocturnal animals. We saw an enormous giant flying squirrel ‘fly’ and even a glimpse of a Clouded leopard.

The food was excellent, the Bornean wildlife was incredible, and the overall experience was one of the absolute highlights of my trip to Malaysia!

What was the weather like? In May the weather was great. Not too hot or wet.

Words by Travel Collecting.

Please Pin for Future Travel to Malaysia

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Please check out the following Malaysia travel posts:

Kwai Chai Hong: Beautiful Art Murals in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur

Discover Penang in 3-nights

Is Penang Street Art Still Worth Seeing In 2024?

Chew Jetty: What To See in Penang’s Historic Waterfront Village

Pinang Peranakan Mansion: A Tour of Penang’s Heritage Museum

Blue Mansion Penang Review: Cheong Fatt Tze

Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort Review: Beachfront Luxury in Penang

Best Ipoh Itinerary For 2 Days + Cave Temples

Is Ipoh Worth Visiting? Here’s 13 Reasons Why You Should Visit Ipoh in Malaysia

Gua Tempurung: Explore the Limestone Cave in Perak, Malaysia

Sepilok Orangutans: Ultimate Bucketlist Orangutan Experience in Borneo

7 Best Places to See Orangutans in the Wild

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire, or accommodation? Check out my resources page to help you plan your trip.

 I would like to receive occasional updates and new travel posts.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Wednesday 17th of March 2021

Wow Malaysia has so many things to offer. I was supposed to travel to Borneo but I accidentally booked Brunei. I really have the trekking in the forests to see Orangutans up in my list. I will definitely plan for it as soon as the pandemic is over.

I have been to the Borneo Islands and absolutely fell in love with the place. As I was reading this article, it reminded me of my visit there and also the need to plan a visit to explore the rest of the places. You have curated a great list of the places and the experiences.

Ambica Gulati

This is such an indepth guide. I would love to see the mosque in the water. I would love to cycle around the paddy fields. Most of all, I would like to try the cuisine. And the unmissable looks like a visit to the Semenggoh Nature Reserve.

Chloe Beaver

Tuesday 16th of March 2021

Malaysia was my first experience with Asia and it is where I absolutely fell in love with the culture & the continent. Although I only had the opportunity to visit Kuala Lumpur, I hope to go back one day to visit Penang! This is a great list, and I might give the scuba diving a go as well!

WhereAngieWanders

you will love Penang, it's just so unique. I hope to return one day and also head to the Perhentian islands and Borneo

Ummi Nadrah

It's always lovely to read about my country from a visitor's perspective. Because the grass is always greener on the other side, it's easy to take for granted the things that we see every day. Anyway, from this list, my favorites are Kuala Lumpur (where I live) and Penang, which I visit at least twice a year. There are some that I haven't been to yet but wish to check out soon once travel restrictions are lifted. Currently we are not allowed to travel interstate.

What a fabulous country to live in! I can't wait to return in the future and experience it some more.

20 Things to do in Malaysia + Tourist Spots

Malaysia sits between Singapore and Thailand, literally and on the scale of how easy it is to travel.

The country is divided into two main regions, Peninsular Malaysia on the west, composed of Kuala Lumpur & nearby states.

And, East Malaysia, composed of Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo Island.

You can enjoy many of Southeast Asia’s best heritage cities, natural spots, food havens and urban experiences in Peninsular Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur offers direct connections from major cities in Asia & beyond. It’s the primary hub of AirAsia, so finding cheap flights shouldn’t be hard to come by. There’s also the option to a bus or train and cross the border from/to Singapore easily within a day. Once you’ve arrived, getting to main tourist spots is convenient by land or air.

Venture to East Malaysia for the best beaches, diving & trekking. It is home to Mount Kinabalu, the tallest peak in archipelagic Southeast Asia (outside of Papua) as well as many beautiful off-shore islands.

Is Malaysia on your bucketlist? Inspire your trip with these must-visit places and top things to do for first-time travelers.

1. Kuala Lumpur

Location : Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Peninsular) . Save on Google Maps .

Kuala Lumpur is definitely worth exploring if ever you’re visiting Malaysia. The capital city’s urban landscape, dominated by iconic KL Tower and Petronas Towers, is dotted with grand heritage buildings, worthwhile museums, well-maintained parks, revered temples, and mosques.

How to go :

Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), the main flight gateway to Malaysia. It’s one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in the world with direct flights to tourist hubs in Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia, South Asia and major cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Major airlines include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Lion Air, Malindo Air & Firefly. The airport is 30 minutes to 1 hour south of the city center by land. You can take the train, bus or private car.

From the Philippines, go on a flight to Kuala Lumpur on AirAsia, Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Malaysia Airlines. Travel time takes nearly 4 hours. Flights to KL are also available from Clark, Cebu & Kalibo.

Kuala Lumpur Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

Malaysia 4G Pocket WiFi Hotspot (MY Pick up)

Malaysia Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Malaysia (click below to see rates and book online) |

Malaysia Fares & Transport

Malaysia Tours & Discounts

Malaysia  WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to Visit in Malaysia  |  Kuala Lumpur Itinerary  |  Singapore Travel Guide .

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference.

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2. Penang & Georgetown

Location : Penang, Malaysia (Peninsular) . Save on Google Maps .

Food in Georgetown, Penang is widely known as the best throughout the country and is reason enough to visit. It’s definitely my favorite place to visit in Malaysia. There is no place in Southeast Asia that can match its satisfying mix of old-world cosmopolitan heritage, relaxed feel, exotic allure, and lush natural landscapes.

Georgetown & Penang Island is one hour north of Kuala Lumpur by flight. Penang International Airport (PEN) serves frequent direct flights KL, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Taipei & many domestic destinations in Malaysia including Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Langkawi, and Kota Bharu. Popular airlines include AirAsia, Malindo Air, Malaysia Airlines, Tigerair, Jetstar & Cathay Dragon. You can also reach Georgetown by bus/train/car, after a 4 to 6-hour land trip from Kuala Lumpur.

Penang Travel Essentials

Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing

THE TOP Komtar Penang

The Habitat Penang Hill Admission Ticket

Location : Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Melaka (Malacca) is a former Portuguese-colonial trading port conveniently located between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. If you’re traveling to both cities by land, this heritage and food destination is worth a stopover.

Melaka is easy to reach by land from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The bus ride from Kuala Lumpur usually takes 2 to 3 hours. If you’re coming from Singapore, travel may take between 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on the queue at the Singapore-Malaysia immigration checkpoints.

Melaka Travel Essentials

4. Langkawi

Location : Kedah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

If you’ve been to the best beaches in the Philippines and Thailand, Langkawi’s natural scenery is probably not going to blow you away. That said, it still is a stunning place to visit with worthwhile things to keep you busy for a day or two. What I like about Langkawi the most is that is easy to travel yet remains approachable and largely underdeveloped. It’s also one of the few tax-free islands in Malaysia where you can enjoy duty-free shopping.

Langkawi is one hour north of Kuala Lumpur by flight. Langkawi International Airport (LGK) serves flights from KL, Singapore, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Penang, Guangzhou & Shenzhen, operated by AirAsia, Tigerair, SilkAir, Malindo Air & Malaysia Airlines. If you want to go by land & ferry, ride a bus or train from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis (6 to 8 hours travel time). Then, ride a ferry to Kuah in Langkawi Island. The sea journey takes around 1 to 2 hours. You can also arrive in Langkawi on a direct ferry from Penang or Satun in Thailand.

Langkawi Travel Essentials

Shared Ferry Transfers Between Langkawi and Koh Lipe

Ferry Ticket between Koh Lipe and Langkawi by Hi Lipe

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

5. Putrajaya

Location : Putrajaya, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Putrajaya is home to many of Malaysia’s most impressive monuments. Here, you’ll find grand mosques, government buildings, and iconic bridges surrounded by manicured parks and a 600-hectare lake. It can be reached on an easy day trip from Kuala Lumpur or on a drive-by to the airport.

Putrajaya is easy to visit from Kuala Lumpur. It is located between KL city centre and Kuala Lumpur International Airport. You can go by train on the KLIA Transit or by bus. Travel time may take as quick as 30 minutes or up to 1 hour depending on the traffic.

Putrajaya Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

6. Legoland & Johor Bahru

Location : 7, Jalan Legoland, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Legoland Malaysia is one reason to visit Johor Bahru, located just across the causeway from Singapore. It is the first Legoland theme park in Asia and features many cool attractions including a Lego-themed water park, Lego-themed hotel, and impressive miniature recreations of many of Asia’s best-known landmarks.

Most travelers visit Legoland & Johor Bahru on a day trip from Singapore. Travel time usually takes 1.5 hours to 3 hours depending on the queue at the Singapore-Malaysia immigration checkpoint. If you’re traveling from abroad, Johor Bahru-Senai International Airport (JHB) serves direct flights from Bangkok, Guangzhou, Ho Chi Minh, Jakarta, Surabaya & Shenzen. Fly with AirAsia, Firefly, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Sichuan Airlines or Spring Airlines. You can also reach Johor Bahru by bus or train from Kuala Lumpur. The travel time is 4 to 6 hours.

Johor Bahru Travel Essentials

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

Legoland Malaysia – SG Transfers

7. Kota Kinabalu

Location : Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Kota Kinabalu is a bustling yet laid-back city in Sabah, East Malaysia known as a gateway to Borneo’s amazing natural sites including Mount Kinabalu, Mulu Caves National Park, diving spots, and pristine jungles.

From the Philippines, you can fly direct to Kota Kinabalu from Manila on Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. Flight duration is 2 hours.

Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours and 30 minutes easy of Kuala Lumpur by plane. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) serves flights from KL, Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Tokyo and many domestic destinations in Malaysia. Major airlines include AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines & Malindo Air.

Kota Kinabalu Travel Essentials

Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring

Tunku Abdul Rahman Island Visit & Boat Snorkeling Experience

Kota Kinabalu Sunset and City Night Dinner Cruise with Complimentary Drinks

On My Bucketlist

8. Mount Kinabalu

Location : Ranau near Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

9. Cameron Highlands

Location : 39000, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

10. Perhentian Islands

Location : Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

11. Redang Island

Location : Pulau Redang, 21090 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

12. Sipadan Island

13. Tioman Island

Location : Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

14. Genting Highlands

15. Mulu Caves

Location : Sarawak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Location : Perak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Ipoh Travel Essentials

17. Kuching & Sarawak

18. Sandakan

19. Pahang Taman Negara

Location : 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Pahang Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

20. Bukit Tinggi

Location : 28750 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Beyond Malaysia

Location : Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Singapore Travel Essentials

Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket

Singapore 4G Data SIM Card (SG Airport Pickup)

Location : Indochina, Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Malaysia that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Malaysia

Malaysia tourist spots, things to do in Malaysia, where to go in Malaysia & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Malaysia

How much does it cost to travel to Malaysia? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Malaysia

Click below & search recommended Malaysia hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Malaysia Essentials & Top Discounts

Japan mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

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Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

Kuala Lumpur Airport Train Ticket (KLIA Ekspres)

KL Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass

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December 11, 2015 at 4:09 am

How much po ba dpat ang show money sa airport for them to allow u to leave? Im gona stay in malaysia for 3 weeks

December 11, 2015 at 1:48 pm

There’s no set amount that’s required to be shown at the airport. You just have to justify that you have enough money to spend on your whole trip, depending on your budget. If your budget is P1,500 per day, for example, you simply need to have at least P31,500 on your bank account. It also helps to have extra, to show them you are able to pay for unforeseen expenses, like emergencies or last-minute flights.

November 20, 2018 at 1:30 pm

So many great destination ideas! Even though I have already had mine, I still like to get to know some nice destinations, even for holidays with my wife. I would also add one more place that we really like to visit, Bali in Indonesia

January 28, 2019 at 4:03 pm

Wow! Such a great resource you have here! Been in love with Malaysia since day 1 of our visit. The beaches and culture is outstanding! Sooo looking forward to our comeback. Wonderful guide! Kudos!

December 5, 2019 at 2:15 pm

The most famous places to be visited in Malaysia especially Kuala Lumpur is Twin Tower, KL Tower, Dataran Merdeka and many more.

May 5, 2020 at 8:35 pm

There are so many great places in Malaysia, it’s so hard to choose the best! Awesome round up :)

October 4, 2021 at 11:59 pm

You summed it all up in one post. Great coverage and definitely great recommendations.

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

12 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

If countries were awarded for diversity, Malaysia would top first place. Not only is Malaysia a melting pot of ethnic cultures, but it is also a blend of many different customs, cuisines and religions all coexisting peacefully together. From large island groups to mountains, fertile highlands and tropical rainforest, the country’s geography is every bit as diverse.

What’s more, Malaysia is a unique country in that is divided into two main landmasses. West Malaysia occupies the southern half of a peninsula shared with Thailand, while across the South China Sea is East Malaysia, situated on the Borneo island. This list of the best places to visit in Malaysia concentrates on the cultural, historic and natural attractions combined. For an insight in Malaysia’s most popular islands & beaches have a look at the best island in Malaysia .

12. Kota Bharu

Often used as a stopover by many travelers visiting the beautiful Perhentian Islands, Kota Bharu offers its own unique charm, attractions, shopping and cuisine. Located in Peninsular Malaysia near the Thailand border, Kota Bharu is the capital of the Kelantan State , a city easy to get around in.

Kota Bharu is well known for its many museums covering the history, culture and heritage of Kelantan. One of the most popular museums is the Royal Museum , which offers a peek into the state’s royal family through many photographs and lavish artifacts. The Museum of Royal Traditions and Ceremonies is worth a visit just to see the unique timber palace it is housed within.

Much of Kota Bharu life revolves around the city’s bustling marketplaces of which the Central Market is the largest. Surrounded by coffee shops and busy streets dotted with old trishaws, the Central Market is teeming in local women working food stands and selling colorful fruits and vegetables.

Outside the city limits, the beach at Pantai Cahaya Bulan and the Mount Stong State Park offer outdoor activities such as swimming, river cruises, rafting and cave exploring. Scuba diving is available at the site of a Japanese shipwreck from the Pacific War.

11. Sipadan

Malaysia’s only oceanic island, Sipadan lies off the east coast of Borneo, surrounded by the tropical waters of the Celebes Sea . Formed over millennia out of living coral reefs, it is now a mecca for scuba divers , who come to explore one of the world’s richest marine habitats.

There are a dazzling array of dives for visitors to choose from; some take you through atmospheric underwater tunnels and caverns and others past steep coral walls and spiraling shoals of fish. Swirling about the island are all manner of marine life , with sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, and manta rays spotted here and there.

As the island has been closed since 2004 to protect its beautiful beaches and underwater riches, it is only accessible by boat from Mabul and Kapalai, both of which lie nearby. Once fought over by Malaysia and Indonesia, Sipadan is now one of the best dive destinations in the world.

Commanding an important position on the busy sea route between India and China on West Malaysia’s southwestern coast, Melaka was ruled and battled over for centuries between Indian, Portuguese, British and Dutch governments. As a result, this modern day Malaysian city is now a popular tourist destination packed with architecture, culture, traditions and cuisine all reflecting its rich heritage.

Known as a cultural melting pot, Melaka comprises several districts that all feature their own distinct attractions. The Portuguese Settlement is characterized by charming villas, historic churches and the remains of an old fort. In the Chinese quarter is Malaysia’s oldest Chinese temple, the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, as well as one of the largest Chinese cemeteries outside the country of China.

The Dutch district features some of the oldest Dutch architecture in the East. Additionally, each cultural zone features its own traditions and festivals such as the Portuguese “Intrudu” and Chinese New Year.

9. Cameron Highlands

Providing a cool escape from the heat of the lowlands, the Cameron Highlands in the Titiwangsa Mountains are one of Malaysia’s oldest tourist destinations . Developed with an English garden charm, this beautiful tableland offers lush scenery, tea plantations, forests, lakes, wildlife and outdoor recreation.

Although lying in considerable distances from one another, several towns and settlements also dot the area, offering lodging, colorful markets and museums such as the Time Tunnel Gallery, which showcases the history, people and development of the Camerons. The most popular of these towns are Brinchang and Tanah Rata.

As Malaysia’s chief tea and flower producer, the Cameron Highlands abounds in sprawling tea plantations and flower gardens as well as vegetable farms, fruit orchards, butterfly gardens and honey bee farms. Many of these establishments are open to the public. Several pictorial golf courses are available for golfers.

A scenic car drive to Malaysia’s highest point, Mount Brinchang , presents spectacular views, while the Mossy Forest features a boardwalk through untouched trees and plants as well as glimpses of birds, animals, reptiles and insects. Well-marked jungle trails lead hikers to beautiful waterfalls and panoramic overlooks.

8. Kota Kinabalu

The capital of the Sabah State in Malaysian Borneo , Kota Kinabalu is a fast-growing tourist destination due to its close proximity to tropical islands, rainforests, wildlife refuges, national parks and Malaysia’s tallest peak, Mount Kinabalu.

Commonly called KK by locals, Kota Kinabalu has a small city center, boasting a number of landmarks, memorials and an observatory, which offers splendid views of the city.

Most of KK’s main attractions lie outside of the city such as Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre and Kinabalu National Park , which offer wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, orangutans and elephants as well as outdoor adventure like jungle trekking, mountain climbing , whitewater rafting and river cruises.

Just minutes from the city, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park features five small islands that are ideal for diving, swimming and sailing. A visit to the Monsopiad Cultural Village is a must-do to experience the traditions and culture of the Kadazan indigenous tribe and to see the trophy skulls claimed by a legendary warrior more than 300 years ago.

7. Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are a small group of beautiful, coral-fringed islands off the coast of northeastern Malaysia, not far from the Thai border. The two main islands are Perhentian Besar (“Big Perhentian”) and Perhentian Kecil (“Small Perhentian”). Kecil attracts more travellers as it has cheaper accommodation, while Besar is a little more expensive and caters more to families and those who want to avoid the backpacker party scene.

The Perhentian Islands offer some great diving and excellent snorkeling . In addition to coral and fish, the Perhentians are home to sea turtles and several species of shark. The islands are also crisscrossed by small paths connecting one beach to another, but be prepared to sweat and swat off bugs if you tackle any of these.

There is very little luxury accommodation on the Perhentian islands. with the top of the line being air-conditioned chalets and the bottom being a bunk in a longhouse. Discounts are usually negotiable in the off season but the better accommodation can get snapped up fast especially on weekends and holidays.

The largest city on Borneo Island , Kuching is a popular base for exploring Borneo’s rainforest and the state of Sarawak. However, Kuching offers plenty for tourists to see and do during their stay, from sightseeing historic landmarks to bustling markets and outdoor recreation.

Kuching presents a unique setting with its skyscrapers and modern architecture surrounded by lush jungle. The city is situated on the banks of the Sarawak River with a beautifully landscaped waterfront offering views of historic landmarks such as Fort Margherita and Astana palace as well as impressive modern structures like the DUN complex.

The busy waterfront is where tourists will find an array of food vendors, musical fountains, an observation tower, an open-air theater and a number of river cruise operations.

A walk down Kuching’s oldest street, Main Bazaar, reveals historic Chinese temples, markets and many antique and handicraft shops. Numerous museums in the city exhibit local history and art works, while an aquarium displays fish species from the Sarawak River .

Distinct for its umbrella-shaped roof, the Kuching Civic Center contains a planetarium and a viewing platform presenting outstanding aerial views. Picturesque gardens and nearby national parks all offer waterfalls, wildlife and recreational activities like jungle trekking and cave exploring.

Located in the Strait of Malacca off West Malaysia’s northwestern coast, Penang Island is a popular tourist destination due to its historic George Town and rich culinary diversity. Its position along one of the world’s most traveled shipping routes has infused Penang with a colorful array of cultures, architecture and cuisine.

Whether by car or public buses, Penang Island should be explored to see and experience its many attractions like the Botanic Gardens, Bird Sanctuary, Butterfly Park and the white sandy beaches of Batu Ferringhi along the north coast. Numerous temples dot the island including the must-see Snake Temple with its viper residents and the huge Temple of Supreme Bliss.

Formerly a leper and prison colony, Jerejak Island , on Penang’s southeastern tip, is now a tropical paradise offering outdoor adventure as well as spa and pampering services.

No visit to Penang would be complete without a trishaw ride or walk around the island’s capital city, George Town , to see its British colonial architecture and historic Chinese and Indian temples. Additionally, George Town is filled with markets, restaurants and bars. Also not to miss here is Little India , a district rife with aromatic spices and lively Bollywood music.

Widely regarded as Malaysia’s food capital, Penang is famous for it culinary mixture of all the world’s major cuisines, making it a unique cuisine in and of itself. Delicious choices abound from upscale seafood restaurants to Chinese Dim Sum stalls, bakeries and roadside vendors serving the local specialty, Char Koay Teow, a stir-fried dish of rice noodles, cockles and bean sprouts.

4. Kuala Lumpur

Less than 200 year ago, Kuala Lumpur was just a quiet tin-mining town in West Malaysia. Today, this same sleepy village has flourished into the country’s federal capital and largest metropolis .

Commonly called KL by locals, this vibrant city is a cultural melting pot, noted for its impressive skyscrapers and buzzing scenes of shopping , dining and nightlife. When compared to other major world cities, KL is one of the more affordable travel destinations.

See also: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Like many large cities, Kuala Lumpur suffers from heavy traffic, so getting around is best by monorail. From sightseeing historic landmarks and British colonial buildings in the Old City to viewing the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in the modern district, and browsing the colorful street stalls in Chinatown , there is no shortage of things to see and do in KL .

3. Taman Negara

Encompassing three states across the northern part of West Malaysia, Taman Negara is reputed to be the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. A popular ecotourism and adventure destination, this national park is teeming in in wildlife from rare plants to exotic birds and scarce animals like the Malayan Tiger, Asian elephant and Sumatran Rhinoceros.

Most visitors access Taman Negara through the town of Kuala Tahan , which is located across the river from the national park headquarters. From the visitor’s center, jungle hikes and other adventures can be arranged.

There are a variety of exciting ways to experience the park’s natural attractions such as hiking, fishing and cave-exploring. One of the most popular things to do is in Taman Negara the Canopy Walk, a long suspension bridge high above the treetops where visitors can walk and glimpse exotic birds.

Guided night safaris are also available to see plants that only bloom at night, glow-in-the-dark fungi and nocturnal creatures like owls, leopard cats and water dragons. Climbing Teresek Hill also provides opportunities to see rare birds, wild boars and beautiful panoramic views.

Visiting the settlements of indigenous groups, known Orang Asli , are worthwhile to learn about their traditions and tips for surviving in the jungle. For food choices, the floating restaurants along Kula Tahan’s riverside are not to be missed.

2. Langkawi

Located off Malaysia’s northwestern coast in the Andaman Sea, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands boasting picturesque beaches, rainforest, mangroves and forest-clad mountains, making it one of Malaysia’s most popular destination.

In recent years, hotels , restaurants and other tourist facilities have developed in Langkawi, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the archipelago’s exceptional natural beauty.

By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi with a population of some 65,000, the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba. The island’s natural splendor is its number one attraction .

Beaches offer powdery white sands, crystal clear waters, limestone cliffs and water sports. The most popular beach, Pantai Cenang , is busy with restaurants and bars. The beaches of Pantai Tengah and Pantai Kok are more isolated, offering peace and tranquility.

Several protected parks offer jungle trekking and mangrove tours where visitors can experience breathtaking views of the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and exotic birds and animals like monitor lizards and macaque monkeys.

Gunung Raya and Gunung Mat Cincang are Langkawi’s tallest mountains with lookout points presenting outstanding views of the area and across to Thailand . Gondola rides and the SkyBridge are fun ways to ascend the mountains and survey the surrounding beauty.

1. Gunung Mulu National Park

Famous for its extraordinary limestone karst formations and phenomenal cave systems, the Gunung Mulu National Park is one of the most awe-inspiring natural attractions in all of Southeast Asia.

Located in Malaysian Borneo in the Sarawak State, this national park features some of the largest and longest cave systems in the world. Included in these is the world’s largest cave chamber, the Sarawak Chamber , which is estimated large enough to hold 40 Boeing 747 aircraft.

Situated among rainforest, crystal-clear rivers, rugged mountains and deep ravines, the park’s other remarkable features include the Pinnacles , a concentration of pointed, limestone spires, a karst sinkhole known as the Garden of Eden , and two majestic peaks, Gunung Mulu and Gunung Api.

The park is also home to a number of wildlife species such as hornbills, bats, gibbons, barking deer and bearded pigs. In addition to guided cave tours and hiking, a popular activity here is walking high above the treetops along the world’s longest canopy walk.

Because Gunung Mulu National Park is located in a remote area, the best way to access it is by air into the Mulu Airport . However, it is also possible to reach it by a combination of road, boat and hiking from Miri, although this can take many hours or days. Arrangements with tour guides will provide transportation and lodging.

Map of Places to Visit in Malaysia

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Reader interactions.

June 2, 2019 at 11:00 pm

I’ve been to Langkawi island, Cameron highlands and KL city. Its a really good experience to visit Malaysia.

December 9, 2017 at 7:47 pm

Great recommendations. I am surprised that Kota Bharu made it to your list – it’s just a bit unusual. But I am more surprised that Terengganu and its gorgeous islands such as Perhentian and Redang didn’t make it. Disclaimer: I am from Terengganu.

April 23, 2016 at 6:52 am

Kilim Geo Park in langkawi is a great place to visit

November 21, 2015 at 1:25 am

Thanks for nice article! Can you tell about some unexplored places to visit in Malaysia which are less crowded.

September 5, 2015 at 10:27 pm

I’VE been to langkawi twice. Never forget the 7 wells, cable car, pulau datang bunting and pulau beras basah, bukit monyet @westin resort. Beautiful. I recommend u all.

June 5, 2015 at 3:33 pm

Thanks a lot for this exhaustive list! Looking forward to experiencing Malaysia!

February 20, 2014 at 8:36 pm

I have been to Kuala Lumpur, and the city is stunning. There’s a place near KLCC where i went for batik painting workshop. Batik is one of the most important traditional handicrafts in Malaysia. The place is called MyBatik, and i had a really relaxing and good time there with my family.

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Top 15 Tourist Attractions in Malaysia for Adventure Seekers

Are you planning a vacation to Malaysia but can’t decide which places are the best? After living and travelling around in Malaysia for decades, I have listed down my favourite places to visit in Malaysia that I would love for you to see at least once while vacationing in Malaysia.

There are many amazing places in Malaysia where one can go but what if you have limited time like two weeks at most? That’s why you must know the unique places to visit in Malaysia to have an unparalleled experience in this country which is a perfect blend of mixed western, Arab, Chinese & Indian cultures and the rich heritage of Southeast Asia.

There are several tourist attractions in Malaysia worth visiting.  Below, you will find about the top 15 Tourist Attractions in Malaysia where you are guaranteed to have the time of your life. Read on to find out about the best time to visit, how to reach it, the main attraction of that location and much more!

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Discover the Best tourist attractions in Malaysia

1. kuala lumpur.

The national capital of Malaysia, the paradisiacal city of Kuala Lumpur is not only one of the biggest cities in Malaysia, but it is also full of outstanding places to visit in all of Malaysia & one of the best tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur. KL has grown dramatically over the past few decades with some of the biggest and most important projects like the Petronas Twin Towers being built here.

Petronas Twin Towers

Of course, the very first on this list is the tallest twin buildings in the entire world, Petronas Towers . These majestic buildings are one of the major landmarks in Kuala Lumpur. One building is the headquarters of the Petroleum company it is named after. Its twin building is the one you get to explore with 41-42 floors being the sky bridge and the 86th floor the observation deck.

Ticket Prices: For Malaysians- RM 25 and for foreigners, it is RM 80.

Tip: Always book your ticket online in advance because they are impossible to get on the spot.

Batu Caves is One of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia has to be the Hindu temple complex located in Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia, a mere 14 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. The shrine is dedicated to Lord Murugun and consists of 10 caves in total.

There are 272 steps which are painted in different colors. Located at the base of the hill, the Art Gallery Cave and Museum Cave have paintings and statues inspired by Hinduism. This place is honestly a thing of beauty and wonder.

Ticket Price: There is no admission fee required to visit Batu Caves.

How to reach Batu Caves : You can easily reach Batu caves from Kuala Lumpur via train in 1.5 hrs. as well as a taxi in 20 minutes.

What is the best time to visit Batu Caves: You should visit Batu caves during the Thaipusam Festival to enjoy the festivities of the Hindu Tamil community.

(Official Jetty) Sky Mirror Kuala Selangor

For all photography lovers, this mysterious island that emerges selectively, Sky Mirror is the best place to visit in Malaysia. It is called so because of its mirror-like reflecting surface. You can see the sky so clearly on its surface that it starts seeming like a little piece of heaven fallen on Earth. Also, If you are an anime fan, then you must visit this place because this place is the real-life version of Tanjiro’s Soul (Demon Slayer)!

Malaysia tourist package: Sky Mirror Tours

Tour Price: For the Sky Mirror tour , the fee is RM 80 for 2.5 hrs. If you are also going for the Fireflies tour and blue tear tour, you will have to pay RM 30 for 45 minutes.

How to reach Sky Mirror Selangor: Since Sky mirror is located in the middle of the sea, the only way for you to get here is via a boat.  

Address : Jalan Sultan Mahmud, Kuala Selangor, Selangor

Central Market

Located on Foch Avenue, this Art Deco Style market is an extremely popular place among tourists. Originally it used to be a wet market but now with the rapid development of the country, it has been awarded the title of ‘Heritage Site’. You can roam around this vibrant and colorful market and soak in the harmonious living of different ethnic groups here.

Timings:  Central Market opens at 10 am and starts closing down around 8 pm.

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

Another tourist attraction in KL, Malaysia is the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur . Located in the center of the famous Bukit Bintang district, you must visit this shopping center to enjoy its eight shopping precincts and boutiques. Some of them are Couture Pavilion, a precinct dedicated to world-famous labels and Japanese street, a precinct dedicated to Japanese culture but with a modern twist.

Address : 168, Bukit Bintang St, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur

The fourth tourist attraction in KL on this list is Menara Kuala Lumpur . It is a communication tower that was built in 1995. The top portion of this tower is a public observation platform where you can enjoy good food at its revolving restaurant. Also, this single tower provides one of the best views over the sprawling city!

Address : 2 Jalan Punchak, Off, Jalan P. Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur

Aquaria KLCC

This is one of the places to visit in Malaysia with family, located in the Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Aquaria KLCC is an ultra-modern oceanarium that houses around five thousand creatures, both aquatic and land bound. You get to experience and learn about Malaysia’s diverse biosphere here!

Ticket Price : The general admission fee starts at RM 75 which is applied for 2hr of exploring!

Timings: It opens at 10 am and starts closing at 7 pm, the last entry is accepted at 6 pm.

Address : Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

KL Bird Park

Another amazing place to visit in Kuala Lumpur is KL Bird Park . With over 200 species of local and exotic birdies in one place, this bird park is the perfect eco-tourism place that is located in the heart of KL. Many exhibits are organised here for people to enjoy and appreciate these lovely creatures.

Ticket Price : A Standard Ticket for an adult will cost you RM 75 and RM 50 for kids. You can book your ticket online, but it is redeemable only after 24 hrs., expiring after 30 days of booking.

Timings: It opens at 9 am and closes at 6 pm.

Address : 920, Jalan Cendrawasih, Tasik Perdana, Kuala Lumpur

Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Merdeka Square

One of the most important historical buildings in Malaysia, Sultan Abdul Samad Building is an architectural wonder and beauty, built-in 1894-97 in Indo-Saracenic, Mughal and Moorish styles. It is located just opposite Merdeka Square, the standard venue for the Independence Day Parade held every year.

Merdeka Square has been called Independence Square ever since the Malaysian flag was hoisted here for the first time. Nowadays, Sultan Abdul Samad Building is a government office and backdrops the Independence Day celebration held in Merdeka Square.

Timings : it is open 24 hrs.

Address : Jln Raja, Kuala Lumpur City Center, Kuala Lumpur

National Museum KL

The ninth on this list is the National Museum which is located on Jalan Damansara. This museum houses four galleries displaying everything from free-standing tableaux depicting cultural events to ceramics, flora and fauna and traditional weapons. The overall building is simply amazing and well-maintained and totally worth the visit!

Ticket Price : For Malaysians, the ticket fee is RM 2 and is free for children wearing uniforms. For Foreigners, ticket fees for adults cost RM 5, RM 2 for children between 6-12 years old and free for kids below 6 years of age.

Timings : It is open from 9 am to 5 pm.

Website: muziumnegara.gov

Address : Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jln Damansara, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur

KUL Art Airport

KUL Art Airport is a unique idea that features the creations of local artists so that they can showcase their artistic talent and cultural essence on an international platform. It is a joint project by National Art Gallery and Malaysia Airports Holding Berhad (MAHB). This modern-style building consists of a main lobby, auditorium and a library, the perfect place for art lovers!

Ticket Price: there are no fees required.

Timings : Opening at 9 am, it closes at 5 pm.

Address : 2, Jalan Temerloh, Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur

2. Resorts World Genting

Situated in Genting Highlands , Resorts World Genting is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia. There are just so many things to do here that you will find yourself making a checklist first! At Resorts World Genting, you can plan a stay at its amazing hotels, have fun at the theme park and partake in various shows and events that are always happening there.

Moreover, you can go shopping as well as to casinos here. There are even bars, clubs and restaurants for nightlife entertainment!

Tip : For all budget travelers, you have to come and stay at the world’s biggest hotel which has 7451 rooms in total! First World Hotel is located at the center of Resorts World Genting, offering you great views and easy access to some really fun places like Genting International Convention Centre, SkyWorld, SkyAvenue, Indoor Theme Park, First World Plaza and Skytropolis.

Price range: You will have to pay between RM 121 – RM 358 for a Standard Room at First World Hotel. Prices are higher at Theme Park Hotel for families, to the luxurious Crockfords Hotel.

How to reach First World Hotel-Budget travel, Resorts World Genting: You can easily reach Resort World Genting from Kuala Lumpur via both bus and taxi in around 1.5 hrs.

What is the best time to visit Resorts World Genting: this place enjoys cool temperatures throughout the year, but it often finds itself covered in mist too. So, the best time to visit Resort World Genting is all year round, though you should try to avoid the holiday season when this place gets the most visitors.

3. Taman Negara

Taman Negara is known as one of the world’s oldest rainforests, encompassing over three states in West Malaysia. This rainforest is abounding with the rarest of flora and fauna like wild grapes, the Malayan Tiger, jewel orchids and the Sumatran Tiger.

Taman Negara is a wonderful eco-tourism destination and a favorite among local and foreign tourists. A popular thing to do here is the canopy walk. It is a long suspension bridge where you get to stroll and enjoy sites of evergreen forests and their exotic birds.

If you are a nature lover who enjoys partaking in activities like hiking, trekking and mountain climbing, Taman Negara is a must-visit place for you. Here, you can climb the highest peak on mainland Malaysia- Gunung Tahan and a hill called Bukit Teresek for an easier trek.

Another thing you can do here is visit Orang Asli, a village inhabited by indigenous people and try out their traditional food, see their traditional hunting, and learn how they live with harmony. You can even go Night trekking here!

Ticket price: There is a compulsory entry fee for all visitors of RM 1 per person. You need to acquire a fishing license separately, which costs RM 10 per rod and a camera license, which costs RM 5 per unit.

Timings : it is open for visitors from 9 am to 5:30 pm

Address : 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang

How to reach Taman Negara: The best way to reach Taman Negara is to take a bus to Jerantut town, Pahang from Kuala Lumpur. From Jerantut you have the option to get on a boat to sail the river or take a bus to Kuala Tahan Park HQ. You can even get on a train at Merapoh to reach the northern entrance.

Located on the northwest coast of mainland Malaysia, Penang is a Malaysian state that has some of the really amazing places of interest in Malaysia like Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi and Kek Lok Si Temple. Penang is geographically divided into two parts- mainland Seberang Perai and Penang Island.

George Town

George Town is at the top of the list of places of interest in Penang, Malaysia due to its architecture and food. It is the second largest city in Malaysia with the older part of this town given the title of UNESCO World Heritage. George Town is also quite popular for providing the best street food in Asia.

Penang Hill

Penang hill is a must-visit for its history as the first colonial hill station in peninsular Malaysia and its vibrant atmosphere with chilly climate and fantastic view.

ESCAPE Penang

If you are a fan of zip lines, slides, climbing towers, and high ropes courses, ESCAPE Penang is the perfect theme park for you. Also, they have kid-friendly attractions too.

Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm

If you are a lover of butterflies, make sure to visit this place at least once while in Penang. This place houses fifteen thousand free butterflies, a true heaven for butterfly enthusiasts.

Penang Little India

When you are done with George Town, Little India in Penang should be your next stop. One of the oldest Hindu temples of Penang is also located here!

How to reach Penang: From Kuala Lumpur, you can easily get to George Town Penang by flight, bus, or taxi and you can even reach here via a ferry! Travelling around the state of Penang can easily be done via local buses and taxis.

What is the best time to visit Penang? For the best weather and to enjoy the festivals, the best time to visit Penang has to be between November to February.

5. Tioman Island

For anybody interested in ecotourism, Tioman island is perfect for you with its awe-inspiring beaches, natural beauty, and wildlife. It is the perfect getaway with its white sandy beaches, coral reefs that provide excellent diving conditions, and a dense jungle with trails for all hiking lovers.

If you are wondering what makes Tioman Island special than any other Island, let me give you the finest reasons to visit Tioman Island. Tioman Island is one of the top diving spots in Malaysia where diving enthusiasts come from all around the world for scuba diving and snorkeling. In fact, in the 1970s, Tioman Island was declared one of the most beautiful islands in the world, which stands true to this day.

How to reach Tioman Island: Tioman Island has two sources of transportation- air and water. At Tioman Airport, you can readily find a flight to Subang. If you wish to travel by water, two ferry companies provide their services to take you back and forth from the Island to the mainland.

What is the best time to visit Tioman Island: Between February and October, you can plan anytime through July, August and September are the best times to visit Tioman Island. Avoid making plans from November to January when it is monsoon season on the island.

Situated on the bank of Kinta River, Ipoh is an incredible city that is among the top best places to visit in Malaysia. It used to be a village in the ninth century but after the discovery of tin deposits, it rapidly grew and was declared a city in 1988.

Ipoh’s main tourist attraction is its British colonial-era architecture. It is also known for its delish cuisine. You can go exploring its limestone hills, caves and the buddhist temple that are in them. Another thing you must remember is When you are in Ipoh, you must try out their specialty, traditional white hippo coffee.

How to reach Ipoh: being the fourth largest city in Malaysia, Ipoh is well connected to other cities. You can easily reach Ipoh via train as well as bus in 2-4 hrs. from Kuala Lumpur.

What is the best time to visit Ipoh: To enjoy the temperature in this tropical region, you should visit Ipoh from December to February. Avoid Monsoon season (August to November) when weather conditions are not great.

7 . Langkawi

Langkawi is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Malaysia and is popular by its title as the jewel of Kedah. Langkawi is a group of 99 small islands with Pulau Payar and Pulau Laba being two of the most popular islands here.

Of course, there are many tourist attractions here but here is a compilation of the top best places that you must visit in Langkawi, Malaysia:

Dataran Lang: It is a popular statue of a majestic eagle that is perched over a panoramic waterfront.

Langkawi Skybridge Cable Car: This gondola lift is a popular tourist attraction here.

Langkawi Sky Bridge: It is one of the most panoramic and stunning pedestrian bridges in the entire world, another must-visit place in Malaysia.

Underwater world Langkawi: if you are a fan of water creatures then a gigantic aquarium with over 200 freshwater and marine species is the perfect place for you.

How to reach Langkawi: you can reach Langwaki by flying out from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah. You can also get on a train too. The budget-friendly option would be to reach here by bus and ferry.

The best time to visit Langkawi: During these months, the West Coast in Malaysia gets the least amount of rain and the most sunshine. From August and October, Langkawi often sees heavy downpours, so try to avoid these months for visiting.

8 . Melaka also known as Malacca

Melaka is another popular city in Malaysia which is best known for being one of the oldest and cleanest cities in Malaysia. For all history enthusiasts, Melaka also known as Malacca is heaven for it used to be once renowned as an international trade center in the East. Here are a few of the places you must visit in Malacca.

Taming Sari Tower (Malacca Tower): when in Malacca, do visit Malacca Tower, the first and tallest gyro tower in Malaysia.

A Famosa: It is a Portuguese fortress that used to be the tallest building till 1641 when the Dutch destroyed it.

Dutch Square (Red Square) Melaka: it is a maroon-colored structure in the Dutch colonial style in Malacca city.

Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum : it is a reconstruction of the Malacca Sultanate palace that has been converted into a museum.

How to travel to Malacca: To reach Malacca city, the fastest way is to get a taxi. If you are budget-travelling, you can get on a Bus or night bus from Kuala Lumpur. If you wish to travel by train, you can get on one in KL and reach Pulau Sebang from where you will have to take a taxi for a further journey to Malacca city.

What is the best time to visit Malacca: the best time to visit Malacca is in the dry season which means in April and May. You can also come here in October to enjoy the cooler temperature in the tropical country.

9. Cameron Highlands

Located in the Pahang district of Malaysia, Cameron Highlands is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Malaysia. It is a peaceful municipality in Malaysia that has sweeping tea plantations, Cooling resorts and strawberry farms that are just perfect for a relaxing vacation.

Besides these, Cameron Highlands also has a hidden gem- Mossy Forest. The Mossy Forest is a magical forest that is covered with- you guessed it, moss- and mist. It is located in the highlands of Mount Brinchang and if you come here, don’t forget to bring a camera.

How to reach Cameron Highlands : you can easily reach Cameron Highlands via train, bus and taxi in 2-4 hrs.

What is the best time to visit Cameron Highlands:  the best time to visit is in November but you can also consider the months of February to April to avoid the monsoon season.

10 . Kundasang on of the beautiful places in Malaysia

Popularly known as mini–New Zealand and the most beautiful place in Malaysia, Kundasang is a place that you should put down as a must-visit place in your itinerary. Kundasang has tons of popular attractions. One of them is Kundasang War Memorial which is located on a hill at Jalan Kundasang Kauluan.

This place was built as a tribute to all the soldiers who died during WW-II in the infamous death marches to Ranau. The memorial has four gardens, representing four nations. Kundasang is also popular for its Vegetable Stalls where you can purchase high-quality fresh harvest.

How to reach Kundasang: To reach Kundasang, you can easily get a flight to Kota Kinabalu Airport. From there, it is a one and a half hours long drive to Kundasang which you can do via a taxi or town car.

What is the best time to visit Kundasang: As Kundasang faces heavy rainfall from May to December, the best time to visit Kundasang is between December and April.

11. Pulau Perhentian

Just like Tioman Island, another Malaysian Island that is world famous for its natural beauty, the Perhentian Islands or Pulau Perhentian are one of the best places to visit in Malaysia. Pulau Perhentian are basically two Islands. One is Pulau Kecil, a popular destination among backpackers and budget travelers.

The second Island is Pulau Besar, the perfect place for a romantic getaway in luxurious resorts! Pulau Perhentian have the most gorgeous coral reefs, beaches and it is also a great location to go scuba diving.

How to reach Perhentian Island: To reach Perhentian Island, the best way is to reach Kuala Besut. You can get a flight and bus too. In Kuala Besut, ferry services are available to take you to your destination!

What is the best time to go to Perhentian Island? The best time to visit Perhentian Island is in July and August. Avoid Perhentian Island during the months of November to March due to the Monsoon season.

12. Mount Kinabalu

Revered as the world’s third-highest peak of an island and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Mount Kinabalu is not a place that you can exclude from your Malaysia itinerary. It is located on the West Coast of Sabah. For all nature lovers, you have to come to Mount Kinabalu to explore it and its surrounding mountains which have abundant animals, plants and some rare species.

For example, the world’s largest flower Rafflesia blooms here. You can even go hiking on the lower peaks given you take an accredited guide with you as per the national park regulations. Another thing you should know is that you need to get a climbing permit to climb the mountain and a reservation for this should be done in advance.

How to reach Mount Kinabalu: In order to reach Mount Kinabalu, you can easily grab a flight to Kota Kinabalu International airport. From the airport, you can easily grab a taxi to travel around and to the mountain site.

What is the best time to visit Mount Kinabalu: the best time to visit Mount Kinabalu is between March and September. It is the dry season here during these months and even the locals recommend it.

While in Sabah, there is another place that you should check out:

13. Poring Hot Spring (Kinabalu National Park)

If you want to wind down and relax in spring, come to Poring Hot Spring, a small tourist resort near the Kinabalu National Park Headquarters that has loads of fun things to do. It is situated in the lowland rainforest in the Ranau district of Malaysia. 

This resort has a butterfly farm, Tropical Garden, Kipungit Waterfall at a 30 minutes’ walk, and Poring Canopy Walkway where you can trek under the canopy of the King of the Forest, the Menggaris tree.

How to reach Poring Hot Spring: The best way to reach Poring Hot spring is via train from Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station to Terminal Skypark Komuter Station. From here, you have to transfer to fly from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport to Kota Kinabalu. Now, all you have to do is grab a taxi to the resort.

What is the best time to visit Poring Hot Spring: It is recommended that you visit Poring Hot spring in the evening between 5 pm to 7 pm.

14. Legoland Malaysia

For all the lego lovers, Legoland Malaysia is waiting for you to come and stay here and have the time of your life in Malaysia’s first international theme park which is also the first Legoland Park in Asia. Also, you should spend 2 full days here to fully explore it.

Legoland Malaysia has several attractions sharing the common LEGO theme. For example, at ‘The Beginning’, you will find the ticket booth, their merchandise shop, snack bars and restaurants. The other areas like Imagination, Technic, Water Park, Miniland etc.

Price Range: Day tickets range from RM 189 to RM 313 for adults and RM 149 to RM 259 for kids and the elderly. It is completely free for kids below 3 years.

Address : 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, Nusajaya, Johor

How to reach Legoland Malaysia: Located in the city of Iskandar Puteri (formerly Nusajaya) in Johor state, Legoland Malaysia is very easy to reach. You can easily catch a flight to Johor’s Senai International Airport from where it is only a 15 minutes’ drive to Legoland Malaysia.

15. Mari Mari Culture

Another interesting place to visit in Malaysia is Mari Mari Culture, a village that is dedicated to culinary, craft & dance demonstrations of local ethnic communities’ traditional homes. If learning about people with different cultures and traditions, make sure you add this location to your itinerary because it is definitely worth the visit!

Ticket Price: For an adult, the ticket ranges from RM 100 to RM 180. For kids, it is RM 90 to RM 170.

Timings: the tours start from 10 am to 5 pm.

Address : Jalan Kionsom, Inanam, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

How to reach Mari Mari Culture: you can easily get a flight from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Kota Kinabalu International airport. From the airport, you can easily grab a taxi to Mari Mari Culture which is only 24 kilometres away.

16. Kampung Budaya Sarawak

Kampung Budaya Sarawak is a living Museum in Sarawak where you will see the main ethnic groups in Sarawak ‘s traditional lifestyles and residences. Located only 35 km from Kuching, Kampung Budaya Sarawak is a must-visit place in Malaysia where they also organise cultural performances every day!

Ticket Price: For an adult, the ticket ranges from RM 85 (one-day admission without lunch) to RM 117 (one-day admission with lunch). For kids, it is RM 55 (one-day admission without lunch) to RM 80 (one-day admission with lunch).

Timings: the tours start from 9 am to 5 pm.

How to reach Kampung Budaya Sarawak: To reach Kampung Budaya Sarawak, you have to get on a flight from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Kota Kinabalu International airport. From the airport, you can easily grab a taxi to Kampung Budaya Sarawak.

Top Tips for Travelling in Malaysia

While you are travelling in Malaysia, there are a few things that can make your trip even easier and more wonderful. Here are the top 8 tips you should know to make the most out of your time while visiting Malaysia.

• Malaysia is a country that is very serious about the duty-free concession. You can buy certain items for a limited amount only. Travellers need to declare all the dutiable and prohibited items in their possession when they both enter and leave the country.
• Learn common words and phrases in Malay, Chinese and Tamil. Even though the majority of locals know English, knowing a little of the local language will get you some precious smiles.
• There are extremely strict rules and punishments against drugs, no matter the quantity, being brought into the country in Malaysia. Make sure you double-check your luggage and that there are no suspicious items with you.
• Malaysia does not have a tipping culture. Just pay the mentioned amount and if you are very pleased with the service, ask them beforehand.
• Don’t be scared of the crowds. You have to be a little adventurous while wandering around hawker stalls. They serve amazingly delish but cheap food.
• If you are travelling on a budget, you make use of public transportation here. It is going to cost you much less than other modes of transportation like getting a taxi. Moreover, you get to experience the country from a unique perspective.
• Malaysia is blessed with tropical hot and humid temperatures, ranging from 28-32 degrees celsius. Make sure you pack your clothes accordingly and always have a backup plan for indoor activities when it rains.
• Malaysia sometimes suffers from haze due to the illegal burning of forests in neighboring countries. Try to avoid travelling in Malaysia during this time. Check weather before you are travelling.

It has to be said that Malaysia is a country like no other. If you want to experience a more modern yet in touch with its root’s country, Malaysia is the perfect destination for you. All the Tourist Attractions in Malaysia give an unparalleled experience with their architectural treasures, breathtaking islands, religious places and stunning skyscrapers. Also, it is a relatively budget-friendly destination.

Don’t you just want to go exploring the amazing cities, towns and islands in a day and then, wind down while enjoying the amazing nightlife in Malaysia?!

Looking for more travel inspiration blogs, make sure to check out our other blogs for more inspiration and start planning for a fantastic vacation!

Are you ready to begin your next adventure? Do leave a comment for us because we would love to know your adventurous stories.

What to pack when you travel to Malaysia?

When you are travelling around Malaysia, there are a few things that you should keep with yourself.

• Pack light because both your overhead and carry-on bags should weigh less than 7 kg which is the current weight allowance on most budget airlines.
• Lightweight Rain Jacket, dry bag, and an umbrella if you are in Malaysia during the monsoon season.
• Purchase a collapsible water bottle to save extra bucks on purchasing water every single day. Plus, a collapsible water bottle will save you luggage space too.
• Pack slip-on for our trip to Malaysia because shoes are going to create too much hassle for you here. As there are many religious places you need to visit here, you will be required to take off your shoes frequently.
• Malaysia is a country that is blessed with a hot climate, so make sure you pack your cotton, summer-friendly clothes.
• Needless to say, pack your sunscreen and prescription medicine. If you are allergic, prepare an extra dose of epi-pen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does a Malaysia trip cost?

Although Malaysia is not a cheap destination to visit compared to other budget-friendly places like Thailand, and Cambodia, the trip cost is actually not that high when we look into its quality factor. You will find the price for food, accommodation and even transportation is pretty affordable. So, if you are a budget traveler, don’t hesitate too much to put Malaysia on your bucket list.

Is Malaysia safe to Travel alone?

Malaysia is actually a really safe country to travel to. However, it is advised for solo travelers to not wander around alone but stay close to a group of other travelers and crowds. The crime rate is low here but make sure you are alert of your surroundings anyway, especially at night in big cities.

What is the best time to visit Malaysia?

Due to its unique geography, the best time to visit the different parts of Malaysia varies.  If you are not a big fan of too-hot summers, plan your trip between the months of December to April. Many popular festivals are also celebrated during January and February here which are like a cherry on top of your trip.

How many days are enough for Malaysia?

You should spend at least two weeks in Malaysia to truly experience the best places and main tourist attractions here. Of course, you can add more days, it would be even better.

What are the famous Mosques in Malaysia?

Among the most beautifully constructed mosques which are a must-visit for all architecture lovers and Muslims are:

• National Mosque of Malaysia: It is located in Kuala Lumpur.
• Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad: It is also located in Kuala Lumpur.
• Putra Mosque: It is located in Putrajaya.
• Masjid Kristal: It is located in Kuala Terengganu.
• Melaka Straits Mosque: It is located on Malacca Island in Malacca City.
• Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu: It is located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

What are the famous Temples in Malaysia?

Some of the most popular Buddhist, Hindu and Chinese temples for you to visit while in Malaysia are:

• Shri Maha Mariamman Temple: this Hindu temple is located in Kuala Lumpur.
• Thean Hou Temple: this Chinese temple is also located in Kuala Lumpur too.
• Sam Poh Tong Temple: this Buddhist temple is located in Ipoh.

What are the famous Islands to Visit in Malaysia?

The most popular islands in Malaysia which are well-known for their pristine beaches and rich and diverse aquatic life are:

• Perhentian Islands
• Tioman Island
• Langkawi Islands
• Redang Island

What famous tourist attraction is found in Malaysia?

One of the most famous tourist attractions in Malaysia is the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. Other popular attractions include the Batu Caves, Langkawi Island, and the historical city of Malacca.

What is Malaysia famous for?

Malaysia is famous for its stunning beaches, diverse culture, delicious food, iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, and rich history and heritage. Other popular attractions include the Batu Caves, the Cameron Highlands, and the historical city of Malacca.

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• 41 Amazing Malaysia Tourist Attractions For An Adventure Of A Lifetime In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Malaysia is an amazing country, known for reflecting an eclectic blend of ancient customs, traditions, and culture with a dash of modernity. The country has a lot to offer to its discerning tourists in terms of all the Malaysia tourist attractions like beautiful islands, beaches, quaint towns, heritage sites, and adventure spots. If a Malaysia tour is on the cards, here’s a quick list of the best places to visit in Malaysia and mind it, it comes with a no-miss warning. Whether you’re looking for nature, architecture, relaxation, or adventure, these places will ensure you have a great holiday in Malaysia. So, make sure you visit all of these Malaysia tourist places on your next trip to the country if you wish to experience the best of what this nation has to offer.

Malaysia Tourist Attractions In 2024: Best Islands And Mountains

We have shortlisted some of the best islands to visit in Malaysia with your family and friends for an awesome brief getaway. Prepare to be thrilled and have the best experience of sightseeing in Malaysia.

• Langkawi Island – Land Of Azure Waters
• Perhentian Island – Witness The Colorful Corals
• Penang – The Finest Of All 
• Kinabatangan – Home To Exotic Wild
• Mount Kinabalu – Hiker’s Paradise
• Pangkor Island – Serenity All Around 
• Sipadan Island – The Top Diving Site
• Mantanani – Exotic Marine Life
• Redang Island – Home To A Marine Park
• Manukan Island – Exciting Water Sports
• Pulau Tioman – Path Less Taken

1. Langkawi Island –  Land Of Azure Waters

Image Source

A beautiful archipelago, Langkawi Island is a destination known for its vast expanse of sandy beaches and azure blue water which enthral the tourists. The Langkawi Geopark is a UNESCO heritage site that attracts a large number of visitors and is, undoubtedly, the top among the must-visit places in Malaysia. It is a perfect manifestation of the geological heritage in the area. It is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia with family.

Major Attractions: Famous Cable Car that is popular among kids, as well as, adults. Entry Fee: INR 15 – INR 20 per head for a one-hour island tour Tip: This beach is a must-visit for total relaxation, rejuvenation and sightseeing in Malaysia.

Must Read: Malaysia Islands

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2. LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort – Be Dazzled

You get to experience a time full of imagination. The LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort is the first international theme park in Malaysia & the first LEGOLAND® theme park in Asia. Explore an area full of attractions that will completely dazzle you. This is a wonderful place to visit in Malaysia with kids as they are going to love the various rides, shows, slides and multiple other attractions. 

What’s more is that you can have a memorable time at the waterpark with more than 20 tubes and slides and over 70 LEGO® models. Enjoy an amazing underwater experience with more than 13,000 marine creatures from 11 habitat zones where you can even spot unique LEGO® figures along the journey!

Major Attractions : LEGOLAND® Water Park, SEA LIFE, LEGO®KINGDOMS, LEGO TECHNIC® , MINILAND, LEGO CITY, Land of Adventure, Imagination, LEGO®NINJAGO® World, The Beginning & The Big Shop

Entry Fee : Prices vary according to attraction you choose 

Tip : Try to explore at least 1 activity from all the themes for a fulfilling experience

3. Perhentian Island – Witness The Colorful Corals

A group of stunning, coral-fringed islands – the Perhentian Island is located almost 19 km away from North-eastern Malaysia. It is a part of a marine park where activities like fishing are strictly prohibited. It is one of the most unique places to visit in the country. It is also counted among the best places to visit in Malaysia with friends.

Major Attractions: Transparent shallow waters near the coast allow a perfect glimpse of the colourful corals at this famous tourist place in Malaysia. Entry Fee: INR 80 to INR 100 per adult at the Marine Park Tip: These islands are among the best places to visit in Malaysia to enjoy the vibrant hues of corals.

Suggested Read: Tioman Island

4. Penang – The Finest Of All 

Located on the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia , Penang is one of the finest Malaysian islands that you shouldn’t miss on your trip. Famous as an exotic destination, the place offers its visitors so much to explore. This city’s Wonderfood Museum, Fort Cornwallis, Reclining Buddha, Burmese Temple and Waterfront Village just happen to be some of the best places in Malaysia for you to visit.

Major Attractions: Rainbow Skywalk, Street of Harmony and Waterfront Village are some of the places you must visit. Entry Fee: NA Tip: Don’t miss out on Armenian Street Art and Wonder Food Museum.

5. Kinabatangan – Home To Exotic Wild

Located to the east of Sabah, Kinabatangan is known for its rainforest remains. Its wildlife sanctuary attracts a large number of wildlife lovers at this tourist attraction in Malaysia. Among the most romantic places to visit in Malaysia, this one tops the list.It is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia in 3 days.

Location: Northeastern Borneo, Malaysia Major Attractions : Visit the Jungle Camp to enjoy wildlife in its unhindered natural habitat. Entry Fee: INR 6000 per person (Minimum 2 adults) for 2 days, 1-night trip to the Kinabatangan Jungle Camp Tip: Enjoy an early morning cruise to watch out rich wildlife

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur

6. Mount Kinabalu – Hiker’s Paradise

The tallest mountain of Borneo, Mount Kinabalu is a striking sight to behold. Hikers love to enjoy impressive trails that allow a glimpse of the picturesque surroundings of the region. Quite popular among people with adventurous bones, it is one of the best Malaysia visiting places to have a thrill-ozing experience. Among the good places to visit in Malaysia, this one tops the list. Location: West Coast Division, Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Zipline to experience the rush that comes with high velocity Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Tip: Enjoy amazing sights and thrilling activities at this tourist place in Malaysia.

7. Pangkor Island – Serenity All Around 

Image Source If you’re seeking peace and solitude with the perfect mix of beauty and serenity, you should be heading to Pangkor Island, one of the most tranquil Malaysia tourist attractions . Lying near Perak’s coast, this is one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions that features empty beaches, crystal clear and clean water, and dense jungles covering the centre of the island. You’ll love the chance to sunbathe under swaying palms here without another soul in sight. When you’re here, you must check out the Dutch Colonial Fort, take pictures of a traditional wooden jetty, and feed hornbills at the Sunset View Chalet. Location: West coast of Peninsular Malaysia Major Attractions: Dutch Colonial Fort, Sunset View Chalet

Suggested Read: Malaysian Street Food

8. Sipadan Island – The Top Diving Site

Image Source The petite island near Semporna in Sabah is among the world’s top diving sites and surely one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions. After attaining the status of a protected reserve in 2002, only a handful of tourists at a time are permitted to visit this limestone pinnacle which is one of the best islands near Kuala Lumpur . So, make sure you get your permit way in advance so that you do not miss out on the experience of seeing one of the best Malaysia attractions. Preserving its delicate ecology, this island has everything from unique flora to bizarre fauna to make your holiday a special one. Location: Celebes Sea off the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Diving and rare fauna

9. Mantanani – Exotic Marine Life

Image Source Sabah’s Mantanani Islands located near Kota Belud are some of the most famous tourist places in Malaysia that offer Borneo’s finest diving sites just an hour from Kota Kinabalu. It’s among the most famous places in Malaysia owing to its diving locales and a favourite of all snorkelers and divers who flock to this island on day trips from the capital city. Swarming in large numbers, divers come in from all parts of the world to these islands to wander in its clear waters and meet seahorses and stingrays. Scuba-certified divers can choose from more than 20 locations here for these water sports in Malaysia .

Location: North-west coast of the state of Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Diving and snorkeling sites

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Bukit Tinggi Malaysia

10. Redang Island – Home To A Marine Park

Image Source The Redang Island is a cluster of 9 islands that form this unique locale for a day tour from the mainland. The Rendang Island Marine Park located near Terengganu State is among the most exciting Malaysia tourist attractions. Tucked near the Perhentian Islands, this charming archipelago attracts adventure seekers and nature lovers who are more into a luxurious holiday than backpacking. Find some of the best hotels and resorts in Malaysia on these islands for a lavish holiday experience. Other than luxury and great views, Redang’s thriving diving scene also makes it one of the most amazing tourist places in Malaysia. Location: Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia Major Attractions: Luxury hotels, beach resorts, diving sites

11. Manukan Island – Exciting Water Sports

Image Source The second largest island sitting in the first-ever marine national park of Malaysia, Manukan Island is one of the exciting tourist places in Malaysia that one should visit at least once in a lifetime. Home to an extensive number of water sports and beaches, this island has plenty to offer to locals and travellers alike. The Island is famed for its coral reefs that reek of vibrant and eye-catching colours. Accessible by ferry from Kota Kinabalu, this island offers the best of facilities amidst all the islands of Malaysia. Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, Malaysia Major Attractions: Water Sports, Coral Reefs

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Genting Highlands Malaysia

12. Pulau Tioman – Path Less Taken 

Sitting on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, Pulau Tioman is one of the smallest islands. It has been tagged as one of the most beautiful places to see in Malaysia which is nothing less than paradise on earth. The dense, lush green forests and pristine blue waters of this island do not fail to reek of serenity and alluring vibes. Ranking at the top on the list of paths less taken, Pulau Tioman usually remains deserted other than the months when Malaysia experiences monsoon (November to February). Location: Rompin District, Pahang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Water Sports, Solitude

Malaysia Tourist Attractions: Best Cities, Towns, And Villages

We have shortlisted splendid cities, towns, and villages in Malaysia that you must visit this year for a wonderful time with your loved ones. Check out all of these Malaysian tourist places for the best trip of your life.

• Melaka – The City Of Ancient Architecture
• George Town – Reeks Of Historic Vibes
• Perak – A Plate Full Of Adventure 
• Serdang – Try Zorbing 
• Cameron Highlands – Nature At Its Best 
• Johor Bahru – Indulge In The Local Cuisine
• Klang – Try Out The Herbal Flavors 
• Alor Setar – The Rice Bowl Of Malaysia
• Semporna – Crystal Clear Waters 
• Putrajaya – The Perfectly Planned City 

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Malaysia For A Short Trip

13. Melaka – The City Of Ancient Architecture

In 2008, Maleka attained the Unesco Heritage Site status and has been considered among the must-see places in Malaysia, since then. Melaka, located 2 hours away from Kuala Lumpur, is one of the most famous trading ports in Southeast Asia. Its ancient architecture speaks volumes about its erstwhile grandeur. Housing some of the best Malaysia tourist attractions, the city is not to be missed. Tripping with family? Don’t forget to visit classic places in Melaka for kids like the Nyonya Heritage Museum.

Major Attractions: Visit Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum if you are a history buff to know more about Malays-Chinese local history. Entry Fee: INR 130 – INR 150 for adults (Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum) Tip: Enjoy local delicacies at Melaka, a famous tourist place in Malaysia.

14. George Town – Reeks Of Historic Vibes

George Town, a popular historical town, is one of all Malaysia tourist places that history buffs will love to visit. Adorned with some exquisite heritage sites and pilgrimage monuments, the town offers glimpses of erstwhile times. Also, it has its place among the best places to visit in Malaysia.

Location: Penang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Kapitan Keling Mosque, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and beautiful Buddhist Temples. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee to this quaint tourist place in Malaysia. Tip: Enjoy the Vibrant Street art by the local artists at this tourist destination in Malaysia.

Suggested Read: Honeymoon Destinations In Malaysia

15. Perak – A Plate Full Of Adventure 

Located just one and a half hours away from Kuala Lumpur, adventure tourists can experience the thrill of water rafting in Perak. It takes place in the Ulu Slim River, which is suitable for Grade 3+ rafting activity. Excellent equipments are available for the rafters at this famous tourist attraction in Malaysia.

Location: NA Major Attractions: The aboriginal village and scenic landscape all around Entry Fee: INR 2,800 – INR 3000 per person Tip: The equipment available for the rafters here is excellent, which implies Perak is a good place to raft.

16. Serdang – Try Zorbing 

A popular recreational activity, Zorbing can be enjoyed in Serdang. Rolling inside an overblown transparent plastic ball is an amazing experience. No matter, if it’s in water or on a hard surface. It is, hands down, one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions.

Major Attractions: Don’t miss Zorbing at Serdang. It is among the popular Malaysia tourist attractions here. Entry Fee: INR 2,400 – INR 3,000 Tip: Ensure that your sense of balance is sharp.

Suggested Read: Malaysia In July

17. Cameron Highlands – Nature At Its Best 

If you want to be at the hills in Malaysia then Cameron Highlands is the place for you. One of the oldest tourist spots in Malaysia, this hill station was established in the 1930s and is now inhabited by a group of people who are very diverse and have an impact on the culture too. Mesmerising tea estates, great weather, cascading waterfalls, strawberry farms and pretty orchards make reasons enough for you to visit this place.

Location: Pahang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Tea estates, strawberry farms and gushing waterfalls are the prime reasons for you to visit the place. Entry Fee: INR 350 – INR 400 Tip: Don’t miss out on the beautiful orchards and strawberry farms.

18. Johor Bahru – Indulge In The Local Cuisine

The bustling Malaysian city, Johor Bahru is located in the Southernmost end of the country. There’s a causeway bridge in Johor connecting Malaysia to Singapore. You would surely enjoy visiting Istana Besar, a grand royal palace in the city, built in 1866 by the Sultan of Johor. Now it has been turned into the Royal Abu Bakar Museum. Johor Bahru is also a great place for exploring Malaysian food.

Location: Johor, Malaysia Major Attractions: Royal Abu Bakar Museum, Legoland Malaysia, Sanrio Hello Kitty Town Entry Fee: NA Tip: Taking a local transport will help you absorb the culture best

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Miri In 1 Day

19. Klang – Try Out The Herbal Flavors 

Klang is another town in Malaysia which is appreciated for its amazing local food. One of the most popular dishes is Bak Kut Teh, the pork rib soup. The food here is high in herbal flavours. You can visit the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery to get a peek into the intriguing royal history of Selangor. This town also houses the largest port in the country, Port Klang.

Location: Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery, Laman Seni 7, SnowWalk, Trick Art Museum Entry Fee: NA Tip: Do not miss trying new food dishes here

20. Alor Setar – The Rice Bowl Of Malaysia

Image Source Alor Setar is among the most important places to see in Malaysia because it’s the ‘rice bowl of Malaysia’. This capital of Kedah State is full of paddy fields as well as delightful rolling hills that are a treat to the eyes! The city exhibits the typical Malay culture and is home to some interesting galleries, lovely architecture, and pretty beaches that bring people here from near and far. It is located very near to the stunning Pulau Langkawi beach which provides a great place for a day trip from this city.

Location: Kota Setar, Malaysia Major Attractions: Art galleries, beaches, paddy fields

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sepang Malaysia

21. Semporna – Crystal Clear Waters 

Image Source The city of Semporna is famed for the Semporna Archipelago, which is one of the most beautiful Malaysia tourist attractions luring in travellers from around the world. An otherwise hectic town with lots of traffic, this city has only recently become a popular tourist destination owing to this archipelago. If you’re visiting places in Malaysia that have fewer tourist attractions and more natural charm, then this should be on the top of your list. Other than nature, this city also has a mosque and distinctive hotels lining the stunning waterfront.

Location: Borneo, Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Skull Hill, Semporna Archipelago

22. Putrajaya – The Perfectly Planned City 

Image Source Lying over 30 km away from Kuala Lumpur, the planned city of Putrajaya happens to be among the most scenic tourist destinations in Malaysia and has the government´s administrative body. Possessing impressive architecture, monuments, green spaces, lavish parks, and other tourist attractions, this developed city reflects Malaysia’s ambition and vision for the future. More than anything else, it’s a great place to experience the nightlife of Malaysia . You’ll find it beautifully lit up at night with a lot of trendy bars and clubs luring you in. Also, the city is thinly populated, making it one of the most offbeat and peaceful places for Malaysia sightseeing.

Location: South of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: Putra Mosque, Perdana Putra, Putra Bridge, Putrajaya Lake

Suggested Read: Skydiving In Malaysia

Malaysia Tourist Attractions: Best Wildlife Places

There are some of the most exotic wildlife places to visit in Malaysia that protect land and aquatic animals. If you are a nature lover, you will surely enjoy visiting these charming Malaysia tourist spots.

• Aquaria KLCC – Walk Amidst The Marine Life
• Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – Paradise For Bird Watchers
• Bako National Park – Epitome Of Natural Beauty
• Semengohh Nature Reserve – Land Of Orangutans 
• Taman Negara – Oldest Rainforest 
• Kilim Karst Geoforest Park – For Extravagant Mangroves
• Tunku Abdul Rahman Park – Ample Of Beach Activities 
• Turtle Sanctuary Beach – Solace And Solitude
• Gunung Gading National Park – Home To The Largest Flower Ever 

23. Aquaria KLCC – Walk Amidst The Marine Life

Said to be the largest aquarium in the world, the Aquaria KLCC consists of more than 5000 marine and freshwater creatures including the likes of garfishes, massive arapaimas giant groupers and more. Seahorses, huge tiger sharks and bright and colourful coral fishes are the major attractions of this place. The place is one of the best tourist attractions in Malaysia and you won’t wanna miss out on this one.

Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: Colourful coral fishes and big tiger sharks which can be scary. Entry Fee: INR 1200 for adults | INR 1,000 for kids Tip: Enjoy and see the enriching and vast variety of water animals

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Melaka In 2 Days

24. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – Paradise For Bird Watchers

The Bird Park in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is divided into four zones out of which Zone 1 and Zone 2 are for the free flight of the birds where they are left to fly and given a nice environment to breed naturally. It is a treat to the eyes to watch all the colourful birds fly together in these areas. Zone 3 of the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is the Hornbill Park and Zone 4 consists of several cages and separate areas for different types of birds.

Location: KL Bird Park, 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: Some of the major attractions of the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park are Hornbill Park, parrots, the egg incubation area, flamingo pond, bird gallery, and others. Entry Fee: INR 850 for adults | INR 700 for kids. Tip: Do not litter the park.

25. Bako National Park – Epitome Of Natural Beauty

The oldest national park in Sarawak, Bako National Park is an epitome of natural beauty and a vast variety of animals. With seven different rainforest ecosystems and an adventurous and exciting trek where you can explore the wide variety of wildlife and finish the trek upon reaching a beautiful; beach Bako National Park is where you should be.

Location: Sarawak, Malaysia Major Attractions: Interact with nature and explore seven different rainforest ecosystems at once. Entry Fee: INR 150 – INR 200 Tip: Explore the diverse wildlife and enjoy the scenic trek.

Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Malaysia

26. Semengohh Nature Reserve – Land Of Orangutans 

The main purpose behind the establishment of Semenggoh Nature Reserve is to provide nourishment, love and care for animals who have been injured or abandoned. Made in 1975, this natural reserve has more than 9000 species of endangered species. Well known for Orangutan preservation, this place also has another unique factor which is that the animals are released once they are completely rehabilitated here. And that’s what makes it one of the fascinating Malaysia tourist places. 

Location: 93250 Siburan, Sarawak, Malaysia Major Attractions: The variety of wildlife present here attracts the tourists. Entry Fee: INR 170 – INR 200 for adults; INR 80 – INR 100 for children Tip: The Orang-utans development cycle here(9 AM and 10 AM; 3 PM and 3:30 PM) should not be missed.

27. Taman Negara – Oldest Rainforest 

The oldest rainforest in the world, Taman Negara is a quiet and peaceful rainforest in bustling Malaysia. One of the most popular ecotourism destinations in Malaysia this place offers a respite from the monotony of everyday life and many activities for relaxation and rejuvenation and some adventure. You can take boating trips, try your hand at shooting, observe wildlife and trek at Gunung Tahan.

Location: 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Jungle Walks during the night hours, aboriginal settlements at Orang Asli and canopy walks are what you should do at Taman Negara. Entry Fee: INR 17 – INR 20 Tip: Do try out the various activities you can at Taman Negara

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Pahang Malaysia

28. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park – For Extravagant Mangroves

The best way to explore the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park located in the enthralling Langkawi islands is through a boat tour. Known amongst the best places to enjoy natural mangroves this place is all about beauty. The visitors can explore and get to know about unique and distinct Limestone formations, swim in the rivers at the place see and observe the migratory birds and learn about the medicinal plants present at this place.

Location: Malaysia, Kampung Kilim, MY 07000 Kedah Langkawi Kilim Sungai Kilim Major Attractions: Let the beauty of suspended and distinct Bogak trees and the migratory birds take over you. Entry Fee: INR 3500 -INR 8500 for a boat and tour guide Tip: Enjoy the beauty of Bogak trees and watch flying foxes

29. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park – Ample Of Beach Activities 

A group of five islands namely Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug is what forms the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. If you are a beach person then there’s good news for you! The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park organizes many fun and exciting beach activities. Not just that there is something for water babies too. You can indulge in scuba diving or snorkelling or observe the fascinating marine life.

Location: Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: The exciting beach activities are what most people visit the place for. Entry Fee: INR 350 for adults; INR 250 for children Tip: If you want to try out the beach activities then make prior bookings for the same.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Shah Alam Malaysia

30. Turtle Sanctuary Beach – Solace And Solitude

If you want some privacy and stunning beaches with scenic views then Turtle Sanctuary Beach is your best bet. With its clear waters, bright corals and exotic marine life this place is hard to miss. The best part is that there is not even a single building or resort in the vicinity and dense forests are what one sees as far as one can see.

Major Attractions: Great location, bright corals and no commercialisation around the area. Entry Fee: NA Tip: You can catch many turtles laying eggs and many baby turtles hatching which is a rare sight.

31. Gunung Gading National Park – Home To The Largest Flower Ever 

Known for being home to the largest flower in the entire world, Gunung Gading National Park is one of the famous places in Malaysia, especially for the to-be botanists or nature admirers. Rafflesia blooms that are around three feet high can be found here. Although these flowers can die just after a few days, Rafflesia can bloom any time of the year. Apart from this, this National Park has ample to offer including clear beaches, rugged and stunning mountains, and the lush green jungles where one can hike.It is one of the beautiful places in Malaysia to explore.

Location: Southwest Sarawak, Malaysia Major Attractions: World’s largest flower -Rafflesia, hiking spots in the jungles, and beaches for strolling around Entry Fee: INR 340 for adults; INR 120 for children Tip: You can look at the largest flower but avoid smelling the Rafflesia blooms as it has a nasty fragrance.

Suggested Read: Malaysia In May

Other Tourist Attractions In Malaysia

There are several historical, adventurous, and entertaining tourist places to visit in Malaysia. Make sure you include all of these outstanding Malaysia tourist spots in your itinerary for a great trip.

• A’Famosa Fortress – For A Hint Of Europe
• Maran Murugan Temple – Perfect Craftmanship
• ATV Adventure Park – For A Dose Of Thrill And Entertainment 
• Bukit Bintang – Be A Part Of Crazy
• Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower – Stunning Cityscapes
• Petronas Twin Towers – Most Iconic Of All
• Sunway Lagoon – Embrace That Inner Child
• Islamic Arts Museum – An Insight Into The Culture
• Batu Caves – Magnet For Adventure Enthusiasts
• Kek Lok Si Temple – Popular Amidst Pilgrims

32. A’Famosa Fortress – For A Hint Of Europe

In Portuguese, the meaning of A’Famosa is “famous” and this magnificent fortress is extremely popular among tourists. Glimpses of European architecture can be seen here, which makes it one of the most unusual Malaysia tourist places. A’Famosa Fortress is perfect if you are looking for some light sightseeing in Malaysia.

Location: Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka, Malaysia Major Attractions: Ammunition-storage room, officers’ quarters and captain’s residence. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee to this monumental Malaysia tourist attraction. Tip: Best to visit in the early morning to avoid crowds thronging to the place.

Suggested Read: Festivals In Malaysia

33. Maran Murugan Temple – Perfect Craftmanship

Maran Murugan temple is a famous temple dedicated to the Hindu God, Lord Murugan. It has a mysterious past and the story of its origin is quite interesting. Unique of all the places to visit in Malaysia, this one is prominent due to its amazing craftsmanship.

Location: Sri Maran Marathandavar Aalayam, Jalan Kuantan – Jerantut, Pahang, 26500 Maran, Malaysia Major Attractions: Maran Murugan temple is known for its amazing architecture and striking golden colour painted exterior. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Tip: Visit during Morning Darshan to enjoy the solitude of the temple.

34. ATV Adventure Park – For A Dose Of Thrill And Entertainment 

Enjoy an exciting experience of driving Terrain Vehicles at a mind-numbing pace in the Adventure Park. This entertainment park is perfect for enjoying some of the soul thrilling activities of all the best places to go in Malaysia for a thrilling day out.

Location: Atv Adventure, Kampung Kemensah, 68000, Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: Cross country runs and Sofea Jane Waterfall Entry Fee: INR 850 to INR 5,200 Tip: Join the training park if you are an amateur, willing to master quadro-cycling.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Malaysia For Honeymoon

35. Bukit Bintang – Be A Part Of Crazy

On a visit to Kuala Lumpur, one can also experience the best of nightlife and shopping in Bukit Bintang. Streets of Bukit Bintang get a new look after 10 PM when all the restaurants and nightclubs increase their music volume to attract a huge number of tourists towards them. The area gets crowded with youths, while bright lights make the place look vibrant and festive.

Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The Pavilion KL is one of the best shopping malls that store products of a large number of European brands like Dolce and Gabbana, MaxMara, Versace, and others. Entry Fee: No entry fee Tip: Beware of the pickpockets, who take advantage of the crowd.

36. Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower – Stunning Cityscapes

The KL Tower is a 421 meters tall building, that provides one of the most stunning views of the city, and the KL Tower observation deck at the height of 276 meters. The KL Tower skybox provides a unique experience of the city with a panoramic view that will help you see the whole city uninterrupted and provide you with a full 360-degree experience. As you move up and reach the KL Tower Skydeck, you get to view the city from its mesmerizing height.

Location: No. 2 Jalan Punchak, Off, Jalan P Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The tower also has a lot of other attractions for the tourists, such as Mini Zoo, Upside Down House, XD Theatre, a 360-degree panoramic view restaurant, Malaysia Cultural Village, and more. Entry Fee: INR 830 for adults and INR 500 for kids Tip: The tower has 22 levels with a total of 2058 steps, so brace yourself for climbing these steps.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Malaysia

37. Petronas Twin Towers – Most Iconic Of All

This is one of the most iconic dominant Kuala Lumpur skyline places to visit in Malaysia. The Petronas Twin Towers dominate the Kuala Lumpur skyline and have become a part of the local culture and national identity. The Petronas Towers consists of two towers named as tower 1 and tower 2. Tower 1 is fully occupied by Petronas and its subsidiaries, and Tower 2 has been made available to various companies for office space on lease including Microsoft, Reuters, Al Jazeera English, Boeing, IBM, TCS and many more.

Location: Concourse Level, Lower Ground, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The upmarket retail centre of Suria KLCC is known for expensive foreign goods and branded labels. The retail centre includes an aquarium and a science centre all located at the feet of the Petronas Towers. Entry Fee: INR 1400 for adults and INR 560 for kids Tip: The sky bridge tickets are free, and you can tip a bellboy or taxi driver to get your ticket for you.

38. Sunway Lagoon – Embrace That Inner Child

Sunway Lagoon theme park is one of the places to visit in Malaysia with your family. It is a water park which offers a lot of rides and other things to do which are suitable for all age groups. With plenty of attractions and a bounty of fun activities in its store, a Sunway Lagoon tour often beguiles people to extend their excursion and enjoy every bit of it.

Location: 3, Jalan PJS 11/20, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: There are various parks like the water park, amusement park, wildlife park, extreme park, scream park, etc. where people can have the best time of their lives. Entry Fee: INR 2900 for adults and INR 2400 for kids. Tip: To save money, one must travel by public transport which may take around 1.5 hours.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Langkawi

39. Islamic Arts Museum – An Insight Into The Culture

As they say art is the best way to express something the Islamic Arts Museum just goes on to be the living proof of the same. Opened for visitors on 12th December 1998 the museum is located in Perdana Botanical Garden and lies right in the heart of the city. Being the largest Islamic Art Museum in Southeast Asia, it is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia. This Islamic Arts Museum contains 7000 artefacts which represent Islamic culture.

Location: Perdana, Jalan Lembah, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The Quran and manuscripts gallery, the Chinese gallery and Indian gallery at Level 3 are attention capturing. Entry Fee: INR 15 for adults; INR 10 for children Tip: Don’t miss out on the fascinating galleries at this museum.

40. Batu Caves – Magnet For Adventure Enthusiasts 

A limestone hill, Batu Caves is located almost 13 km away from the capital city. Even the novice can also try their hand at rock climbing with the help of local trainers here. It is quite popular among the top places to visit in Malaysia, for adventure enthusiasts.

Location: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: The steep inclination of Batu Caves poses a major challenge for adventure enthusiasts. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee (for rock climbing, fees differ with organizing companies) Tip: Follow the instructions of the trainer to ensure your safety.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Southern Malaysia

41. Kek Lok Si Temple – Popular Amidst Pilgrims

Built in the year 1891, Kek Lok Si Temple is tagged as one of the significant Malaysia attractions. This is a Chinese-Buddhist temple that is often called ‘The Temple of Supreme Bliss’. Kek Lok Si Temple is home to an extensive number of images of Buddha. This temple is one of the largest ones in Malaysia and witnesses an impeccable footfall of pilgrims throughout the Southeastern region of Asia. One can witness around 10,000 carvings of Buddha at this temple.

Location: Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia Major Attractions: 10,000 carvings of Buddha on the walls. There is a hill entrance to the temple and it is home to various stalls serving food, and drinks, and selling souvenirs. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Tip: Take back some Buddhist souvenirs for your friends and family back home.

Further Read: Malaysia In April

These Malaysia tourist attractions will conjure up images in your head long after you have quit the country. It is not unusual for travellers to return to the country after visiting it once. This is because Malaysia offers the best hospitality in the world. Don’t believe us? Book your trip to Malaysia and immerse in an experience of a lifetime.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Malaysia Tourist Attractions

Is Malaysia worth visiting?

Malaysia has been counted in the list of the top destinations to visit in South-East Asia and every traveler must explore this country at least once in their lifetime.

Where should I go for 2 days in Malaysia?

If you are planning a short trip to Malaysia then make sure that you visit the top Malaysia tourist attractions including Petronas Twin Towers, Putrajaya, Bukit Bintang, KL City Gallery, and Mitsui Outlet Park.

Which is the best place to visit in Malaysia?

A trip to Malaysia is incomplete without exploring Kuala Lumpur as it is one of the best places to explore in the country.

What is Malaysia famous for?

If you are planning a Malaysia vacation then you must explore its coastal regions like Langkawi, local food, and the famous Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.

What is Malaysia’s famous food?

The most popular dish from Malaysian cuisine is nasi lemak which is prepared with steamed rice. Rice is prepared in coconut milk along with pandan leaves and is served with different kinds of meat.

What is Malaysia’s national dish?

The national dish of Malaysia has been declared as nasi lemak which is a common local dish preferred by the locals. The rice is steamed in coconut milk and pandan leaves which gives it a rich fragrance.

How many days are enough for Malaysia?

It is advisable to spend at least a week in Malaysia to explore famous destinations like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Along with this, you will also need a few days to indulge in activities. So, a trip for 6-7 days will justify the beauty of this place.

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Places To Visit in Malaysia

Here are the top 48 tourist places in malaysia, 1. kuala lumpur.

1 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 109 Tourist attractions

Kuala Lumpur, popularly referred to as KL, is the capital city of Malaysia. Officially the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, it is also the largest city of the country, spreading over almost 245 sq km. Steel-clad skyscrapers, mega shopping malls, renowned monuments, bustling markets and burgeo...

Best Time: December to February, May to August

2. Langkawi

2 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 41 Tourist attractions

Attracting over 3 million travellers annually, Langkawi, or the Jewel of Kedah State, is an archipelago of 99 islands in Malaysia. Sprawled over the turquoise Malacca Strait, Langkawi flaunts serene beaches interspersed with cliffs and rainforests, expansive rice paddies, chic promenades, historical...

Best Time: January to March

3. Georgetown Penang

3 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 44 Tourist attractions

As Malaysia’s fourth most-populated city, Georgetown is the colourful, multicultural capital of Penang Island. Once an eminent trading hub on the Straits of Malacca, the UNESCO-listed city is known for its British colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, temples, mosques and pristine beaches. Beyond ...

Best Time: November to April

4. Genting Highlands

4 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 18 Tourist attractions

Located in Pahang, Genting Highlands is a beautiful hill station in Malaysia which is only an hour’s drive away from Kuala Lumpur. Dubbed as the "City of Entertainment" is renowned for its spirited nightlife, luxury hotels, huge shopping complexes and world-class casinos.

Best Time: March to September

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5. cameron highlands.

5 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 18 Tourist attractions

Cameron Highlands is a gorgeous hill station nestled in the hills of Pahang in Malaysia, in the northwestern tip of the country near the South China Sea in Southeast Asia. Bordered by the Malaysian states of Perak and Kelantan, this hilly district is home to eight different settlements that boast of...

Best Time: February to July

6. Kota Kinabalu

6 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 22 Tourist attractions

Kota Kinabalu, commonly referred to as KK, is the capital of Sabah. The city lies on the fringes of the South China Sea and is home to the majestic Mount Kinabalu, after which it is named. Serviced by Kota Kinabalu International Airport, this city serves as the gateway to eastern Malaysia and partic...

Best Time: September to December

7 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 38 Tourist attractions

Ipoh is the capital of Perak and Malaysia’s third-largest city. It is located between George Town and Kuala Lumpur and is a popular destination for lovers of adventure, art, heritage, and architecture. From exploring breathtaking limestone caves and kayaking along the Kinta River to trying out ...

Best Time: December to March

8 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Pekan is a town in the Pekan District of Pahang in Malaysia. It is popularly known as the "Royal Town of Malaysia" as it is the seat of the Pahang Sultanate. Home to some grand buildings, Pekan town is scenic and pristine with wide clean streets, spacious fields and royal palaces. 

Best Time: April to September

9. Petaling Jaya

9 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 14 Tourist attractions

Located close to the capital of Malaysia, Kualua Lumpur, Petaling Jaya is a little township which has developed into a city. Locals fondly call it 'PJ'. It is also supposed to be the rainiest area in all of Malaysia, having little to no dry seasons to speak of. Nonetheless, it makes for a lovely exp...

Best Time: November to February

10. Batu Caves

10 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 2 Tourist attractions

Batu Caves is a series of limestone caves and one of the most popular Hindu shrines located outside India. It is situated about 13 kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur in the district of Gombak, making it an unmissable day trip from the city. The main highlight of the Batu Caves is 140 fe...

Best Time: January to February

11 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 36 Tourist attractions

Melaka was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, in 2008. It is a city that is culturally rich and also has a number of historical sites for visits. There is also a little river running through the city, providing it with a calm, peaceful aura.

Best Time: April to May; October

12. Batu Ferringhi

12 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Batu Ferringhi is a resort town located near GeorgeTown of Penang Island, Malaysia. It is the prime beach destination of Penang due to Miami beach and is wrapped with reinvigorating water sports like sailing, parasailing, jet ski and banana boating. It bestows rustic relaxation next to bri...

Best Time: November to January

13. Tioman Island

13 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Tioman Island is located in Rompin District of Pahang, Malaysia. The 20km long and 11km wide island has cascading waterfalls, rigoruous jungles, laid-back fishing villages and idyllic beaches. Major area of the island is forest cover and is a habitat to a variety of flora and fauna. Coral Reefs are ...

Best Time: May to September

14. Kuantan

14 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 18 Tourist attractions

Situated in Malaysia, Kuantan is the capital city of Pahang (the largest state in Malaysia) on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. This small but lively coastal town is renowned for its beaches, serene atmosphere, friendly weather, beautiful sunsets and rich Malay culture. 

15. Putrajaya

15 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 27 Tourist attractions

Located in Malaysia, Putrajaya also referred to as the Federal Territory of Putrajaya is a city situated towards the south of Kuala Lumpur. Putrajaya is known for its well built late 20th-century architecture of the Putrajaya Mosque and Iranian style architecture of the Putra Bridge which overl...

Best Time: April to August

16. Kuching

16 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 30 Tourist attractions

The state capital of Sarawak and the largest city on the island of Borneo, Kuching is a diverse city which has incorporated multiple cultures and has evolved as a city with a unique cultural identity. Located on the banks of the Sarawak River, it is serviced by its own international airport and...

Best Time: June to October

17 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 14 Tourist attractions

Officially known as Perlis Indera Kayangan, Perlis is found towards the north of the western coast of the Malaysian Peninsula. The smallest state in Malaysia, Perlis houses the hottest place on the Malaysian land; Chuping. Retaining the old world charm, Perlis is home to some of the largest sug...

Best Time: January to September

18. Port Dickson

18 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 17 Tourist attractions

Port Dickson is a charming coastal city in the Negeri Sembilan region of Malaysia, south of Kuala Lumpur. Located in Peninsular Malaysia, this city is serenaded by the cool blue waters of the straits of Malacca, giving it distinctive long beaches. This makes Port Dickson a popular weekend retreat fo...

Best Time: January to March, June

19 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 3 Tourist attractions

Officially known as the Royal Town of Klang, it is the former capital of the state Selangor, Malaysia. It may not be one of the most beautiful cities in Malaysia, but Klang has a unique old-world charm. Known for its rich heritage sites and colonial architecture, it is a city with palace, mosque, an...

Best Time: December to February

20. Shah Alam

20 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 16 Tourist attractions

Shah Alam is the city and state capital of Selangor, Malaysia.  Situated within the Petaling District and a small portion of the neighbouring Klang District, it replaced Kuala Lumpur as the capital city in 1978. Garden of Islamic Arts, the Blue Mosque, and Sultan Alam Shah Museum - Shah Al...

21. Kuala Selangor

21 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 10 Tourist attractions

Kuala Selangor is a small kampung (village) surrounded by coconut and palm tress, located along the Sungai Selangor. Magical Fireflies are only available in two places in the world, and one of them is in Kampung Kuantan located in Kuala Selangor. Apart from being famous for fireflies,...

22. Subang Jaya

22 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Subang Jaya is a city in Petaling district of Selangor in Malaysia, located 20 km from Kuala Lumpur. It is an internationally well-known city for education and has many universities and colleges. The virbant township houses many retails stores, eateries, and places to visit for the tourists. It...

Best Time: June to August

23. Taiping

23 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 14 Tourist attractions

Ranked amongst one of the top three sustainable cities in the world, Taiping is a town located in Perak, Malaysia. The second largest town in Perak after Ipoh, it receives its fair share of limelight for being the wettest town in Peninsular Malaysia. As one of the first tin mining towns in Mala...

Best Time: June-July

24. Pangkor Island

24 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Pangkor Island is a resort island located in Manjung District, Perak, Malaysia. Boasting of stunning landscape, it is known for its white sand beaches, clear blue skies, corals reefs and turquoise blue water. Located just three-hour drive away from Kuala Lumpur, Pangkor Island is a popular roma...

25. Kuala Kangsar

25 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 11 Tourist attractions

Kuala Kangsar, besides being a royal town of Perak, Malaysia, is the main town in the administrative district of Kuala Kangsar. Located downstream of Kangsar River, it has been the royal seat of Perak since the 18th century. The colonial town houses some of the best converted-palaces and gilt domes ...

26. Teluk Bahang

26 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 9 Tourist attractions

Teluk Bahang is located in Georgetown of Penang Island in Malaysia. It is one of the best destinations for ecotourism offering lush green forests and eco parks along with wide blue peaceful beaches and clear sky. The place is an exemplary match for hiking to waterfalls in addition to beach hopping. ...

27. Johor Bahru

27 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 14 Tourist attractions

Johor Bahru is the capital of Johor state, at the southern end of Peninsular Malaysia. Commonly referred to as JB, it is one of the largest cities in Malaysia with almost 2.6 million residents. Also, it is located just across the causeway to Singapore. Most travellers skip visiting Johor Bahru, but ...

Best Time: April to June

28 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Muar, also called Bandar Maharani, is the capital of Muar district in Johor, Malaysia. Recently declared as the royal town of Johor, it is also the 4th largest city in Johor. This city oozes traditions and cultures which is reflected in its heritage architecture. Known and explored for pre-war archi...

Best Time: October to March

29. Kota Tinggi

29 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 13 Tourist attractions

The town of Kota Tinggi is located in Johor State of Malaysia and is one of the two major towns, apart from Mersing. It is packed with peacefully resting tombs and ancient cities giving an insight into Johor’s Sultanate.  

Best Time: February to March

30. Mersing

30 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 5 Tourist attractions

Mersing is a small coastal town located in the Johor State of Malaysia. It is well-known for its ferry jetty ports that connects ships and boats to several islands nearby. Most of the people pass through Mersing while going to Tioman Island. It is a perfect place to escape from engrossing ...

31. Batu Pahat

31 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 11 Tourist attractions

Just ahead the royal city of Muar lies the town of Batu Pahat which is the capital of Batu Pahat District of Malaysia. Batu Pahat is a family place and perfect for weekend relaxation from nearby cities of Kluang and Muar. 

32 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 12 Tourist attractions

Raub is one of the oldest towns located in Pahang, Malaysia. It is located 110 km from Kuala Lumpur and 265 km from Kuantan (Pahang's capital city). Raub is packed with colonial charm and remnants of meticulously architectural British Buildings. The prime attraction of this place is Jeram Besu’s whi...

33. Bentong

33 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Bentong is located in Pahang, one of the biggest states of Malaysia. Brimming with rainforest and all-embracing hills, it is an ideal place to lose oneself in wilderness away from the bustling city life. Bentong is well-known for its creative wall art all around the city with consummate splendour. O...

Best Time: February to April

34. Kuala Terengganu

34 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 13 Tourist attractions

Kuala Terengganu, also abbreviated as K.T., is the capital of Terengganu state of Malaysia. It is a full package of all in one attractions ranging from beaches to waterfalls to mosques. Despite modernisation, Kuala Terengganu retains plenty of charm. It is the city of old kampong style stilt houses ...

35. Redang Island

35 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Redang Island is one of the largest islands on Malaysia’s East Coast. Located in South China Sea, it is a part of Kuala Nerus District of Kuala Terengganu. It is a group of islands well-known for its crystal clear water offering a picturesque diving to the pristine coral reefs and underwater life.&n...

36. Perhentian Islands

36 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Perhentian Islands are a group of islands in Besut District in Terengganu state of Malaysia. They are an abode of beauty packed with clear-turquoise water, lush-green forests, white grainy sand and untouched coral reefs. They are a part of Pulau Redang National Marine Park. Having well-developed res...

37 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Bau is located in Malaysia’s largest state of Sarawak, about 26km southwest of Kuching. It is a small town with a natural frontier of limestone mountains. It is primarily known for its Bidayuh Culture as the descendants of the Bidayuh Tribes reside here. Bau is packed with natural beauty from caves ...

38 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Sibu is an island town and the capital of Sibu district in Malaysia’s largest state of Sarawak. It is located on the Island of Borneo. Known as the gateway to Batang Rejang, Sibu is a charming town with vibrant culture and a bustling waterfront. Sibu is also popular for offering some of the bes...

Best Time: February to August

39. Bintulu

39 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Bintulu is a small coastal town located in the Bintulu district of Sarawak State of Borneo Island in Malaysia. Bintulu is well-known for its golden beach and the rare endemic Irrawaddy dolphins. It is also famed for the longest kite festival in Malaysia. The town also has the best ‘belacan’ shrimp s...

40 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 3 Tourist attractions

Miri is the capital of Miri District and a coastal city in Sarawak State on the island of Borneo, Malaysia. The town is recognised as the birthplace for Malaysia’s petroleum industry as the first oil well was drilled in Miri in 1910. Miri is also a gateway to the world-famous UNESCO site of Gunung M...

41. Seremban

41 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia 8 Tourist attractions

Seremban, formerly called Sening Ujong, is the capital city of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. It initially thrived as a business center and gained city status earlier in 2020. Seremban is known for Chinese shophouses, colonial buildings, lake gardens and beef noodles. It if often a detour for tourists t...

42. Kuala Pilah

42 out of 48 Places to visit in Malaysia

Kuala Pilah is a town in Kuala Pilah district , 40km east of Seremban in the eastern rural state of Negeri Sembilan in Malaysia. The charm of this old valley town lies in its Chinese shophouses surrounded by traditional Malay village houses built on stilts. Situated close to Kuala Lumpur, it is crow...

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Malaysia Top Tourist Attractions

Malaysia in one of Asia’s most diverse destinations combining beaches , ecotourism, food and shopping . The most iconic Malaysia top tourist attractions include Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Twin Towers, Penang’s bridge along with pagodas, temples, mosques, islands, mountains, caves and Borneo’s nature reserves. The savvy tourist experiences the cities and natural beauty to enhance their travel experience in Malaysia.

1. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur

Anyone who visits Kuala Lumpur will see the country’s most famous attraction: The Petronas Twin Towers. Reaching a total height of 452 metres (1483 feet), this building claims the title of the largest twin tower structure in the world. If you’re in Kuala Lumpur, this is one of the must see attractions. The KLCC Mall occupies the complex below and has a wide selection of high-end designer shops. And if you want to get the perfect photograph or selfie next to Malaysia’s top attraction, head to the park behind.

2. KL Tower, Kuala Lumpur

KL Tower, or known locally as Menara KL, is a giant broadcasting and telecommunications tower on top of a small hill in Kuala Lumpur. The towers reach 420 metres (1378 feet) from the base to the top. But, including the height of the hill, it gets to 515 metres (1690 feet) above sea level. The highlights of KL Tower is the revolving restaurant, indoor observation deck and outdoor sky deck giving the very best views of Kuala Lumpur. Tickets are available online. Access may be limited in poor weather conditions.

3. Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Kuala Lumpur

If you’re into history, this is one of Malaysia’s top tourist attractions. Located on Jalan Raja by the Royal Selangor Club and Independence Square, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is one of the few remaining buildings from the colonial days. After construction in the late 19th-century, British administrative offices filled the building. Today, the Ministry of Information, Communications and Culture of Malaysia uses the space.

4. Batu Caves, Selangor

Batu Caves is a popular day trip from Kuala Lumpur. The caves themselves form a temple. During Thaipusam, thousands of Indians flock to the temple. If you want to visit, you’ll have to climb 272 steep steps before you reach the Cathedral Cave where you’ll see a Hindu God statue. There are also lots of other things to see at Batu Caves including Hindu art and lots of monkeys.

5. BOH Tea Plantation, Pahang

Pahang’s tea plantation in the Cameron Highlands always makes the top 10 tourist attractions in Malaysia. The views of the mountains are spectacular while you’ll get some of the best tea in the country from the onsite café. If you want to experience Malaysia with fresh air, cooler temperatures and serenity while enjoying good views and cups of tea, head to this tourist attraction. Most people will visit as part of a trip to Cameron Highlands.

6. Penang Hill, Penang

If you’re in Penang and want to experience Malaysian colonialism, head to Penang Hill. You’ll see a group of hills with the tallest reaching 833 metres (2723 feet), which was a popular spot with the British. The air temperature is slightly cooler, and there’s less pollution, traffic and noise. Penang Hill is a few kilometres from downtown Georgetown in Air Itam. You can either hike to the top or use the funicular.

7. Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang

Penang has a large Buddhist population, and you’ll find some of Malaysia’s best temples here. Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest and most important. Located on the coast of Air Itam near Penang Hill, visitors, worshippers and pilgrims can get some of the best views in all of Penang. The temple dates back to the late 19th-century and is an important site for Buddhists on pilgrimage from South East Asia. The Pagoda of Rama VI with its seven-tiered structure ascending 37 metres (121 feet) along with the thousands of Buddha statues are the temple’s highlights making it one the best tourist attractions in Malaysia.

8. Langkawi Sky Bridge

Domestic and international tourists love Langkawi. The island paradise has beaches, duty-free alcohol and a relaxed vibe. But it also houses one of the best Malaysia attractions places too: the Langkawi Sky Bridge. The Sky Bridge, built in 2004, is a bridge suspended at the top of Machinchang Mountain. It claims to be the World’s longest free span and curved bridge. The bridge covers a total length of 125 metres (410 feet) and hangs 100 metres (328 feet) from the ground. Tourists can come and get some good views of the jungle below. If you want to experience this, check online for ticket availability.

9. Kellie's Castle, Perak

William Kellie Smith was a wealthy Scottish planter who lived in Perak during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1909, he commissioned the construction of his very own castle, which would be six stories high with a rooftop garden and have the first elevator in Malaysia. A few years later, William Kellie Smith passed away before the mansion was finished. His wife returned to Scotland, and the mansion didn’t get finished. Kellie’s Castle is what remains today.

10. Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan, Perak

Most people recognise a picture of Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa. But few outsiders know about Perak’s Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan. The 26 metre (86 feet) tall clock tower tilts to the left giving it an appearance similar to the Italian counterpart. Locals once stored water inside to prepare for periods of drought. They relied on the clock for the time too. If you’re in Perak, visiting one of Malaysia’s most unique attractions is a must.

11. Pulau Perhentian (Perhentian Islands), Terengganu

If you're looking for a beach or island gateway, head to Pulau Perhentian. The white sandy beaches and beautiful clear waters make the perfect spot for a few days of relaxation in a tropical paradise. One of the most popular activities is to rent snorkelling equipment and swim out into the crystal clear water and see the variety of marine life. If you want to visit one of the top tourist attractions in Malaysia that most foreigners don’t know about, head to Pulau Perhentian. Regular boats take passengers between Terengganu’s Besut District and Pulau Perhentian.

12. Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, Johor Bahru

Johor’s State Mosque, the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque, has a very unique and distinctive design that you won’t find elsewhere in the world. The Sultan commissioned the mosque in the late 19th-century finishing eight years later in 1900. If you look at the building, you’ll see clear imitations of colonial styles. The minarets have a resemblance to Victorian clock towers. You’ll see elements of Moorish designs on the mosque too creating an eclectic combination of religion and historical architecture. Anyone who visits Johor should visit one of the most unique Malaysia tourist attractions.

13. Pulau Kukup National Park, Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru has a large mangrove island just off the shore of Kukup District. You can join a tour that goes through one of the world’s biggest mangrove forests without human habitation. Highlights include the variety of animals and plants such as wild boars and monkeys. A scenic boardwalk around the mangroves offers the best views of the lush environment and wildlife. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Malaysia for people who want to experience natural beauty.

14. LEGOLAND Malaysia, Johor Bahru

Tourists may have seen LEGOLAND in other cities around the world. And Johor Bahru hosts the first one of its kind in Malaysia adding to the diversity of tourist attractions. It’s not just about nature, shopping and beaches! The theme park is a perfect place for families to enjoy a few days of fun. More than 70 rides and themed areas fill the grounds of LEGOLAND along with a water park and hotel. Most families like to bring their children and stay the night to overlook and marvel at the magic outside of their room’s window. If you want to visit from Kuala Lumpur, expect the journey to take at least four hours.

15. Taman Negara, Pahang

Nature lovers will love visiting Pahang’s Taman Negara. The virgin rainforest covers a vast area and is home to the world’s longest canopy walkway. But the most striking feature making this one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions is the age of the rainforest. Estimates suggest it’s approximately 130 million years old. This means the forest was around at the same time as the dinosaurs. Visitors can go to the aborigine village, hike in the jungle, go bird watching and enjoy the views of the Tahan River. You can also explore the caves, go fishing or spend the night among the wildlife by camping.

16. Niah Cave, Sarawak

Sarawak is famous for having one of Malaysia top tourist attractions: the Niah Caves. The caves are important for a number of reasons including the discovery of a 40,000-year-old human settlement, a swiftlet conservation area and the Iban longhouses. Iban are indigenous to Sarawak. Tourists can see cave paintings, coffins that look like boats and explore the surrounding primary rainforest. Some people visit and spend a few nights whereas other come as part of a day trip. The caves are 110 kilometres (68 miles) from Miri.

17. Gunung Mulu National Park, Miri, Sarawak

Miri’s national park in Sarawak is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with caves, cliffs, gorges and the 2376 metre (7795 feet) tall Mount Mulu. The best part of the caves is the Sarawak Chamber, which is so big and cavernous that 40 Boeing 747s can fit inside comfortably.

18. Mount Kinabalu (Gunung Kinabalu), Ranau, Sabah

Mount Kinabalu is Sabah’s biggest tourist attraction. The mountain has lots of legends and folklore associated with it from the former days of paganism. Reaching a total height of 4095 metres (13,435 feet), Gunung Kinabalu is the largest in Malaysia. If you want to visit, you’ll need to allocate two days to climb with an overnight stay near the top. Booking several months in advance is essential.

19. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Sandakan, Sabah

One of the favourite parts of many tourists trip to Malaysia is the abundance and diversity of wildlife, including the primates. Orangutans, or literally translated to ‘person of the forest’ call the lush jungles of Sabah and Sarawak home. Due to illegal logging, many of the monkeys get injured or orphaned. The rehabilitation centre in Sandakan collects primates and tries to teach them how to survive in the wild again. If you visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, you’ll see up to 80 living happily inside.

Malaysia has everything a tourist could want for an exotic trip in South East Asia. You can see the legacy of the colonial days, mosques, jungles and orangutans as well as a plethora of other types of flora and fauna. Combine this with the delicious food, friendly people and inexpensive costs, and any visitor will instantly fall in love with Malaysia.

Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 25 Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

25 Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

The capital city of Malaysia , Kuala Lumpur is a diverse area that includes Tamil, Chinese, Malay, and indigenous inhabitants. The most populous city in the nation, Kuala Lumpur is spread over 200 square kilometers and now merges with neighboring suburbs to create a hub of activity and commerce.

Tourism is a central focus in Kuala Lumpur and as such there are a huge variety of attractions for visitors to choose from, ranging from the more traditional to the more modern depending on your tastes. There are temples and mosques to reflect the diversity of the city, spectacular futuristic towers and skyscrapers, local markets and street food, and just about anything else you can imagine.

Whether you enjoy spending an afternoon wandering in a leafy park, or shopping in a multi-story mega mall, Kuala Lumpur doesn’t disappoint with something to suit all ages and budgets. Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur !

1. Visit the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur

One of the most iconic sights in the world, the PETRONAS Towers, or the PETRONAS Twin Towers considering the fact that there are two of them, are the tallest twin towers in the world. The towers feature postmodern architecture and style and also feature Islamic designs due to the Muslim majority in Malaysia. Visitors flock here for the walk over the sky bridge that joins the two towers together and you can admire the breathtaking views that stretch across the city of Kuala Lumpur.

2. Take in the history at Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Famous for being the oldest Hindu temple in all of Kuala Lumpur having been built in the nineteenth century, Sri Mahamariamman Temple is well worth a visit for those wanting to learn about the diverse cultures and religions that make up this city. The temple is easily recognizable as you approach as it has a vibrant and colorful façade featuring a range of Hindu deities depicting famous legends. The site is a working temple and as such a place of worship for the local Tamil community but visitors can also explore the grounds and wonder at the architecture and atmosphere.

3. Sample some local flavor with Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar, meaning ‘mixed rice’, is a cornerstone of Malaysian cuisine and customers are given a plate of plain rice and can choose a variety of toppings and sauces to accompany it. Nasi Kandar is based on Tamil dishes due to the high number of South Indian immigrants and the sauces and gravies are heavy on curry powder and chili. Common Nasi Kandar dishes include curried meat or seafood as well as a vegetable component such as okra or Asian cabbage.

4. Make some feathery friends at Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

Spanning over 20 acres this enormous aviary is home to over 3000 birds and the focus is on promoting local species to visitors, although there are also some imported birds housed in the park. Visitors can enjoy learning about the local flora and fauna and bird watch in one of the largest public aviaries in the world. The park is also a well respected scientific location and there is an emphasis on conservation and education, and there are breeding programs and scientific studies of the birds in their natural habitat.

Tip : Combine the Bird Park, the Butterfly Park and the Orchid Garden with this combo ticket

5. Enjoy the culture at the National Museum

Located near the famous Lake Gardens, the National Museum is an architectural wonder in itself as it is fashioned in the shape of a traditional house and includes decorations that are a mixture of contemporary and more traditional designs. Visit the National Museum to learn all about the history and culture of Malaysia and take in the replicas of Malay houses, wedding scenes, and hunting displays. There are also local instruments and national costumes on show. As well as the permanent exhibitions at the museum there are also temporary exhibits that change throughout the year and are located in the Central Hall.

6. Have some fun at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

A little way out of the city center in the suburb of Petaling Jaya, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park has offered fun for all the family since it opened in 1997. Their slogan is ‘Come Feel the Fun’ and visitors to the area can experience not just a theme park but also a water park that is located on the same site, and a wildlife and ‘extreme’ park with wilder rides for more adventurous types. The complex includes theme park rides, interactive games, wave and surf pools, and even a zoo. The park also features dining and shopping options for those who want to grab some souvenirs.

7. Scan the depths at Aquaria KLCC

Touted not just as a simple aquarium but as an ‘oceanarium’ housed in the depths of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Aquaria KLCC spans over 60,000 square feet and features a 300 foot tunnel in the center which allows visitors to explore the depths up close as they are surrounded on three sides by water. The experience is set up as a land to sea journey and aims to educate visitors on Malaysian aquatic life, from fresh water rivers and swamps, to the vast ocean. There are also educational and interactive exhibits that emphasize the importance of conservation and Aquaria KLCC has over 5,000 aquatic creatures for visitors to enjoy.

8. Do some shopping at Central Market

The Central Market in Kuala Lumpur, also known as Pasar Seni, is a firm location on the tourist map and was developed from a former wet market selling fruit, vegetables, and meat. Nowadays the area has been updated and includes different sections to reflect the various influences and ethnic backgrounds present in Malaysia such as Malay, Indian, and Chinese areas selling local products like souvenirs and arts and crafts. On the upper floor there is also a food court selling local delicacies and the area in front of the market is known for street performers and musical shows.

• 9.  Learn about rail transport at Kuala Lumpur Railway Station

No longer Kuala Lumpur’s main railway station, having been usurped by the more modern KL Sentral, come to Kuala Lumpur Railway Station to see a railway museum housed inside an example of classic British and Asian architecture. Built during the British colonial period and completed in 1886, the museum is a mix of European and Asian styles and now features antique exhibits in the Great Hall such as fire engines and steam trains. There are also models and replicas of trains and carriages and visitors can stroll around the platforms and learn about the history of the locomotive in Malaysia.

10. Eat some street food at Hutong

Food courts located within malls are plentiful in Kuala Lumpur but Hutong, housed inside Lot 10 Mall, is said to be one of the best in the business. The food court is made up of local street vendors who were selected and asked to sell their dishes at Hutong and as such the food is authentic and delicious, and more importantly is all housed under one roof so you don’t have to go pounding the pavements in search of a feast. The food court is a great place for newcomers to Malaysian cuisine to visit as it features all of the most famous and moreish local dishes such as oyster omelets, fried noodles and noodles soups, dumplings, meatballs, and roasted meats. There is a top rated ‘Off The Eaten Track’ Street Food Tour which you can book here .

11. Visit a working pewter museum at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre

Something of a hidden gem and strangely under-visited, Royal Selangor Visitor Centre showcases the history, factory, and products of Royal Selangor since they began production in 1885. There are free guided tours that include a museum section with early samples of their work, historical photographs, and even period garb for visitors to try on, followed by a visit to the working Royal Selangor factory. You can even try your hand at fashioning some of the pewter pieces and there is a gift shop attached should you want to stock up on pewter jewelry and ornaments.

12. Take in the views at Kuala Lumpur Tower

Also known as Menara Kuala Lumpur, this tower stands at 335 meters and has an observation deck that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The towers serves many functions as well as acting as an observation tower for the sighting of the moon to mark the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, and there is even an annual race to the top to promote health and fitness. The visitor deck is the highest point in the city that is open to the public and it takes fifty-four seconds for the lifts to ascend to the site. Popular times to visit are around dusk to observe night falling across the city.

13. Slow down at Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

For a slightly whimsical day out head to Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park and marvel at the hundreds of different colorful butterflies in residence, over 120 species in fact. The park itself is modeled on a jungle forest experience and features walkways, footpaths, lakes, ponds, and gazebos, and there is an abundance of local flora and fauna to discover in addition to the butterflies themselves. There are educational explanations such as breeding program and life cycle information and visitors to the park can slow down and enjoy the quieter and calmer pace as they take in the local wildlife.

14. Shop till you drop at Suria KLCC

A site within the enormous KLCC complex that includes the mighty PETRONAS Towers, Suria KLCC is a six story shopping center that includes shops, rides, a cinema, a supermarket, and a variety of dining options including food courts. On the top floor of the mall visitors can eat at Rasa food court which features freshly prepared food from all over Malaysia and a table near the windows offers spectacular views over the city. In the basement visitors can also browse the rows of souvenirs and arts and crafts vendors selling their wares from carts.

15. Head to a food haven at Alor Street

In the days of old Alor Street was famous for being a red light district and a place of dubious repute although it has now cleaned up its act and is now best known as a haven for foodies. Should you visit during the day you will be disappointed as the street vendors only really set up when the sun begins to set and the street changes appearance completely and becomes a hive of culinary activity. The vendors here usually focus on selling one signature dish perfected over the years. Expect the food to be delicious but humble and the dining experience will be on the sidewalk on plastic chairs and tables.

16. Meander around Jamek Mosque

Built in the early 1900s, Jamek Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Malaysia and is often visited for its Moorish architectural style and for its location, as it sits at the site where the Klang and Gombak rivers meet. As such visitors can tour parts of the mosque (in appropriate dress) and can also take in the stunning views across the waters. For many years this was the primary Muslim place of worship in the city and has a proud history of famous preachers and religious leaders who have attended the mosque.

17. Meet the animals at the National Zoo of Malaysia

Located to the north-east of Kuala Lumpur, the National Zoo is run by the Malaysian Zoological Society and almost 500 species are housed within. There are a range of exhibits for visitors to enjoy such as a reptile park, an aviary, a lake, and a freshwater aquarium. There are even areas dedicated to insects as well as a huge range of other local flora and fauna. The zoo runs conservation programs and educational activities such as guided tours and interactive exhibits geared towards children and teenagers. There is even a dedicated section called Children’s World that focuses on domestic pets and has a replica farmhouse barn and a play area.

18. Wander through China Town

Kuala Lumpur, in addition to Malay and Indian nationals, has a large Chinese population and as such China Town has developed as a predominantly ethnically Chinese area of the city that is also well worth a visit if you are in town for a few days. Located in and around Petaling Street, the area features a market, Chinese food options, and Chinese cultural attractions such as temples. The street food vendors that set up here at night are particularly popular.

19. Learn some royal history at Istana Negara

Istana Negara used to be the palace of the former kings of Malaysia before a new palace was erected in 2011 and Istana Negara was designated as a royal museum. Visitors to the palace can learn about royal points of interest and visit some of the different rooms and there are also royal guards stationed at the entrance in both modern and traditional uniform. There is also a changing of the guard ceremony every day for visitors to witness some of Malaysia’s royal and official ceremonial traditions.

20. Count some money at Maybank Numismatic Museum

Owned and managed by one of Malaysia’s biggest and best known banks, Maybank, the Maybank Numismatic Museum is now home to the largest money and coin collections in all of Malaysia and is located within the iconic Maybank Tower. The museum has a range of different attractions such as antique examples of coins and banknotes as well as a huge metal sculpture of a ‘money tree’. Visitors can also learn about the history of currency in Malaysia and greater South East Asia.

21. Marvel at the Islamic architecture of the National Mosque

Malaysia’s National Mosque is a truly enormous structure that can accommodate 15,000 worshippers at any given time. Built in the sixties, the mosque follows principles of Islamic architecture and has as a roof in the shape of a sixteen point star. There is also a strong emphasis on water features such as fountains and reflective pools throughout the mosque complex and visitors can tour the mosque but must wear appropriate dress which is provided to do so.

22. Go climbing in the Batu Caves

Located outside of Kuala Lumpur in the suburb of Selangor lie the Batu Caves, and visitors can marvel at these limestone cliffs that are dotted with caves and carved cave temples. The caves and temples are Hindu shrines and are still considered and important place of pilgrimage for the many Tamil residents of Malaysia. Visitors can visit the caves and also experience the local flora and fauna that include wild monkeys that inhabit the area as well as famous cave-dwelling bats. There are also rock climbing opportunities with over 160 climbing routes in the area and lighter treks for less experienced visitors.

23. Take a stroll in KLCC Park

Easily spotted down below from the Petronas Towers Sky Bridge, no trip to KL is complete without a visit to KLCC Park, a specially designed area of Kuala Lumpur that provides the city with some much needed green space. The park stretches over 20 hectares and has jogging and walking trails for visitors wishing to exercise, and there is also a large lake and fountain attraction that features a water show twice daily. There are other water features dotted throughout the area such as ponds, fountains, and waterfalls, and a children’s garden for younger visitors. There is even a mosque within for park for Muslim visitors wishing to worship.

24. Explore a Buddhist Temple at Thean Hou Temple

Thean Hou Temple is something of an iconic landmark in the city of Kuala Lumpur due to its original six tier design that makes it instantly recognizable. The inside of the temple features Confucian, Tao, and Buddhist decorative pieces and has traditional red pillars to welcome visitors and promote prosperity. Considered one of the most decorative temples in Kuala Lumpur, there are intricate carvings and decorated raised ceilings painted in red and gold.

25. Go for a night out at the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is a famous section of Kuala Lumpur that features a range of nightlife, bar, clubs, restaurants, and hotel options. The area spans several streets but the central hub is primarily located in and around Jalan P. Ramlee, where visitors can choose from a wide variety of venues to drink and party until dawn. The area also includes a large shopping center for those looking for some retail therapy or simply to buy some trinkets before heading out for a night on the town.

25 Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia):

• Visit the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur
• Take in the history at Sri Mahamariamman Temple
• Sample some local flavor with Nasi Kandar
• Make some feathery friends at Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
• Enjoy the culture at the National Museum
• Have some fun at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
• Scan the depths at Aquaria KLCC
• Do some shopping at Central Market
• Eat some street food at Hutong
• Visit a working pewter museum at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre
• Take in the views at Kuala Lumpur Tower
• Slow down at Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park
• Shop till you drop at Suria KLCC
• Head to a food haven at Alor Street
• Meander around Jamek Mosque
• Meet the animals at the National Zoo of Malaysia
• Wander through China Town
• Learn some royal history at Istana Negara
• Count some money at Maybank Numismatic Museum
• Marvel at the Islamic architecture of the National Mosque
• Go climbing in the Batu Caves
• Take a stroll in KLCC Park
• Go for a night out at the Golden Triangle

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Penang

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Malaysian state of Penang consists of an island and a peninsula connected to each other by the two longest bridges in the country. George Town, Penang's capital, has become a major tourist destination in Malaysia. Some of the main attractions are its colonial architecture; its connection to WWII; and its many green spaces, which include everything from formal botanical gardens to tropical jungle.

Sections of George Town have also been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites , in part because of their maritime urban settlements known as clan jetties.

If you're looking for ideas on how to spend your time once you get to Malaysia, see our list of top tourist attractions in Penang.

1. The Habitat Penang Hill

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The Habitat Penang Hill is a rainforest experience that takes you into the heart of the jungle and lets you truly feel all the sounds, colors, and smells up close. Your first contact with nature is through the 1.6-kilometer-long nature trail, which cuts through the ancient forest, over rolling hills and far above the Andaman Sea-all of which you can see from several lookout points along the way.

For an even more stunning view of the surroundings, visitors can take the Langur Way Canopy Walk , 15 meters up in the air and 230 meters long, gently curving around and through the trees. Or they can try the ziplines for an up-close experience of the jungle.

For those wanting to catch a glimpse of George Town, as well as the surrounding jungle, nothing beats the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk , a circular platform with 360-degree views and the highest point on the island. Special tours guided by naturalists take place here as the sun sets, when you can see not only a stunning array of colors on the sky, but also catch a glimpse of giant flying red squirrels, bats, and the Penang gecko.

Official site: https://thehabitat.my

The Clan Jetties are one of the most significant historical areas in Penang-a traditional village consisting of structures and houses built on stilts right over the water.

Clan jetties are a very unique type of water settlement created by Chinese immigrants in the late 19 th century. Originally, they consisted of a single structure used as a sort of small warehouse where the loading and unloading of products and materials (including firewood, charcoal, and boat transportation) for a particular trade or industry happened.

Over the years, families (or clans) took over certain industries and unofficially claimed a certain area of the dock, with each clan getting bigger and building more huts along the way.

There are now six jetties on the waterfront-all of them still home to Chinese descendants and considered a historical reminder of the industries that helped shape Penang. While they are technically private property where families live, most of the jetties welcome visitors for a glimpse of their local temple, photos of the sunset over the water, and a nostalgic walk over the walkway surrounding the stilt-houses.

Entopia is Penang's new butterfly farm, a massive glass conservatory where over 15,000 free-flying butterflies live among waterfalls, lush tropical greenery, and re-created natural features.

Trails crisscross through the greenhouse, offering many chances to see butterflies in their natural element, including small caves, a wild garden, a backyard area, and more. Special events throughout the day allow visitors to interact with butterflies up close and learn about unique and rare species.

Entopia is divided into two main sections: Natureland and Cocoon. Natureland is a living garden vivarium that encompasses the main butterfly area, plus ponds and special areas where snapping turtles, frogs, iguanas, and a number of large insects live. Cocoon is Entopia's discovery center, where visitors can learn more about butterflies and participate in hands-on activities.

This two-story center also offers short nature-learning programs for both children and grown-ups.

Official site: http://www.entopia.com/

George Town, Panang's capital city, is a stunning mix of European and Asian influences. Over the past five centuries, the city has grown into a vibrant port town and tourist destination, but without losing the unique legacy that caused her to receive UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2008.

While George Town's architecture is impressive anywhere, the old streets around the Lebuh Acheh historical enclave hold the most significance-from old Chinese shophouses to British colonial mansions and clan houses to a number of temples representing several religions, these historical streets are fascinating to explore.

Among George Town's most significant historical buildings, you'll find the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion , one of only three mansions outside China built using traditional Feng Shui architectural principles, and an early 19th-century Chinese temple dedicated to the Goddess Kuan Yin. The Penang State Museum & Art Gallery , which explores Penang's past and cultural legacy, is a good stop if you want to better understand the importance of this area.

The best way to explore the historical area of George Town is to just walk around and appreciate the rows of wooden shutters, low shophouses, stucco buildings, and colorful details on the most unexpected structures.

Penang's most famous landmark is also the largest fort in the country. Although only one outer wall with cannons remains from the original 1786 bastion , there are enough structures left behind it to give you an idea of the massive size of the original fort.

Stroll through the well-cared-for green lawn to find the remains of prison cells, a chapel, and a storage area that was once used to keep ammunition. A bronze statue of Captain Francis Light, who originally ordered the building of the fort, welcomes visitors as they enter through the gate.

The fort never saw any actual combat, and it was mostly used as an administrative point. Over the years, additional buildings and statues were added, including a steel lighthouse with a design that resembles a ship's mast. While there are small exhibits throughout the fort that explain some of its history, the space is mostly used by locals as a park to spend a quiet afternoon in the sun.

This 20-acre outdoor living war museum in Penang sits on the former site of a 1930s British fort and gun armory. The fort failed to stop the invading Japanese army in WWII and suffered significant damage to its structure. It was later reconstructed and is now home to Southeast Asia's largest war museum and a memorial to the many men who suffered and died under occupation.

The museum's main attractions are all at least partially underground -some as deep as 10 meters under the Earth-and include ammunition bunkers, pillboxes (concrete posts or small fortifications used to hide when firing at the enemy), a communications center, and escape tunnels leading right to where the submarines once stood in wait.

On the surface, cannons, barrack blocks, and a number of photographs and testimonials bring the history of the place back to life. Visitors are welcome to explore the large fort on their own, experiencing the area as they see fit and discovering unexpected corners along the way-including walls riddled with bullet holes, a Japanese suicide vest, and a guillotine stand.

Open until midnight every day, this massive night market with over 100 stalls and tons of character is the perfect place to pick up traditional souvenirs, including batik prints, lacquer plates, and delicate paper lamps. There are also plenty of chances to find copies of famous clothes, watches and purses brands, as well as other small treasures.

Restaurants and food stalls line up the streets here as well, where you have a chance to try a number of delicacies, such as teochew chendol , shaved ice filled with green rice jelly and coconut milk.

Over a hundred years old and the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, Kek Lok Si is home to a seven-tiered pagoda, over 10,000 Buddha statues , and a 37-meter-tall bronze sculpture of Kuan Yin, the Buddhist Goddess of compassion. Around the main statue-the tallest statue of Kuan Yin in the world-there are 100 smaller statues of the Goddess, each two meters tall. The temple is considered a main pilgrimage destination, and it attracts Buddhists from all over Southeast Asia.

The temple covers an area of over 12 hectares, reached after a three-kilometer hike and a steep walk up a stone staircase from the top of Penang Hill. Colorful prayer halls, beautifully manicured gardens, ponds with fish and turtles, and many lanterns line the way-the lights are particularly stunning the month following Chinese New Year, as they stay lit well into the night for four straight weeks.

Penang National Park might be one of the smallest in the world at just 23 square kilometers, but it still contains five very distinct habitats with over 400 different plant species. In addition to forests and mangroves, there is also a long stretch of seacoast here with timber trees lining up the white powdery sand and coastal habitat.

The park is famous for its many trails, which zigzag into the jungle and along the coastline towards landmarks such as the Muka Head lighthouse, which can only be reached by a steep trek up a hill at the end of Monkey Beach. All trails in the park have been left in their original condition, except for the addition of concrete steps and ropes in certain areas to help climbers continue on their way when the terrain gets too demanding.

There's also a 250-meter-long canopy walk off one of the trails, which allows visitors to step among the treetops, 15 meters in the air on a rope and wooden platform.

Built in 1923 and completely overhauled in 2010, the Penang Hill Railway-which has the world's steepest tunnel track -climbs Penang Hill and offers beautiful green open views over the city. While the original climb used to take around 30 minutes, it now takes anywhere between five and 25 minutes-the shortest time without stops and the longest if the cable car stops at the midway stations (only on request) on its way to the top.

Long gone are the wooden carriages with first- and second-class seating. Today, passengers can travel up the hill on modern air-conditioned trains that can carry 100 passengers at a time. Once at the top station, visitors can step onto viewing decks, check out a gallery, or enjoy a snack at the café or food court.

Official site: http://www.penanghill.gov.my/index.php/en/

Although the 30-hectare botanical garden is often referred to as "Waterfall Gardens," there's no actual waterfall within the park-the Penang waterfall is nearby but on private property and the only way to visit it is by joining a special monthly tour by a local non-governmental organization.

The park participates in research and conservation programs, but also offers a recreation environment where visitors can take to the trails for jungle trekking or jogging, explore the extensive tropical rainforest , or discover the many rare species of ferns, the herb garden, and the orchidarium housed here. Some of the hiking trails reach all the way up to Penang Hill, over an hour away.

Long-tailed macaques and black giant squirrels, as well as many species of butterflies, call the gardens home.

Most visitors don't realize George Town is a synonym with great street art until they start walking around and stumbling upon magnificent wall paintings as they turn an unsuspecting corner. It all started in 2012 with a Lithuanian artist painting six large murals, and things have grown quickly since then. Today, one of the most Instagranmable spots in town is the large "children on a bicycle" mural.

The art offers the perfect excuse to spend an afternoon walking around Old Town. Muntri Street and Ah Quee streets are particularly rich in murals, including the famous 20-foot-high Little Girl In Blue and Boy on a Bike , a mural that combines a stunning image of a boy wearing a helmet and an actual motorcycle set up against the building.

You don't have to go far to enjoy powdery soft sands and turquoise waters in Panang. In fact, Batu Ferringhi beach is just steps from the heart of the city, a perfect place to escape for a few hours if you want to soak in the sun's rays, try parasailing, or rent a kayak to explore the coastline.

Sitting alongside a busy road, the beach is lined with a mix of great accommodations, live music entertainment venues, and plenty of dining options. There's also a big night market here, where you'll find everything from basic souvenirs to handmade local textiles to Malaysian batik.

Khoo Kongsi is an ornate Chinese clanhouse. Historically, clanhouses were social organizations or partnerships formed by a group of Chinese immigrants that would collaborate and support their mutual welfare. As the largest clanhouse in Malaysia, Khoo Kongsi serves several purposes, including housing a theater, rowhouses for clan members to live in, and a temple where clan members can worship their ancestors. You could think of it as a miniature clan village.

Highly ornate and richly decorated in reds and golds, Khoo Kongsi is famous for its stunning sculptures of dragons and other beasts adorning the roof. Visitors are welcome, and there's a museum about the Khoo Kongsi Clan on the first floor of the temple. The Central Hall on the second floor, decorated with ink frescoes of legendary heroes, holds special celebrations during the Chinese New Year.

Despite being known as the "floating mosque," the white and blue Tanjung Bungah (which features an impressive towering minaret ) is actually built on pilings and stilts along Tanjung Bungah's beach. A beautiful terrace wrapping around parts of the building gives a 360-degree panoramic view over the open sea and the city of Penang.

If you arrive during high tide, the mosque does appear to float and offers the best photo opportunities. Outside of prayer times, you'll be offered a free tour of the inside.

Luxury Hotels:

• With a lobby resembling a modern art museum, the G Hotel Kelawai is Penang's most cutting-edge luxury hotel. Stylish rooms and suites have a contemporary vibe. Beds are comfy with high-thread-count linens and quality mattresses. If you're traveling with kids, there are interconnected rooms available. Amenities include three stylish restaurants, including on the rooftop. Here, you'll also find an infinity swimming pool with panoramic city views. The hotel's location on bustling Jalan Kelawai street is also appealing. It's near numerous attractions, restaurants, and shops.
• Hotel Equatorial Penang is another luxury option in a secluded location. The hotel sits on top of a hill about 10 minutes from the airport and a 20-minute drive from George Town. Choose from 412 rooms and suites, each elegantly furnished. Rooms have large windows with city, mountain, landmark, or pool views. On-site you'll find a few different restaurants, including one that does Chinese fare and another serving Japanese. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, tennis and squash courts, and a fitness center.
• Seven Terraces sits on one of Penang's most intact heritage streets in the center of George Town and walking distance from all its top attractions. The historic hotel is made up of seven Anglo Chinese terrace homes from the 19th-century. The rooms and suites have an elegant vibe and period decor. On-site amenities include a restaurant, free parking, and airport transport.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• For a very good-value luxury stay try The Light Hotel Penang . Rooms and suites come in a number of different categories. Book the Premier floors for access to the Executive Lounge. The hotel is family-friendly and offers things to do for children. Breakfast is also included in the rate. You'll also find a swimming pool, spa, steam room, and workout room on-site.
• Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion is a George Town property in a grand old mansion in the historic district. The rooms and suites here are spacious and decorated in period style. The family-friendly hotel has some kid-focused amenities, like children's TV networks and kids' menus at the restaurant. There is also a swimming pool with sun loungers on-site and bike rentals. Breakfast is complimentary.
• For a boutique mid-range hotel check out Campbell House . It has just 12 rooms done up in colonial style. The location in the heart of China Town in George Town is also excellent, and the hotel is walking distance from many attractions. Breakfast is included in the rate, walking tours of the city can be arranged, and there is a rooftop terrace to soak up the views of Penang.

Budget Hotels :

• Tune Hotel George Town Penang is a top budget choice. The very affordable hotel is in a central locale and has small but tidy rooms with TVs and safes. They also provide bottled water. Car hire can be arranged at the hotel. Other amenities include 24-hour check-in and security.
• Also try Reunion Residence for a good-value hotel. In the heart of George Town, it has just nine rooms, but these have an almost luxe vibe and are pretty spacious. There is free Wi-Fi and parking, and airport transport can be arranged.
• Walking distance from George Town's top attractions, HelicoNia Hotel is another budget option. Colorful rooms come in six different categories, including options for families traveling with kids. Rooms have balconies, as well as blackout curtains and work desks. There is 24-hour check-in, and if you need to store luggage, this is also an option.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

See More of Malaysia : Malaysia is a country of contrasts, a place where nature, history, and religion are part of everything. To learn more about the many things the country has to offer, take a look at our article, Best Places to Visit in Malaysia . If you're in the mood for a relaxing holiday, sand and coastlines await on the best beaches in Malaysia . For more on Malaysia's capital and the many exciting things to see and do, check out our article on the Top Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur .

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Record-Breaking Tourist Attractions From Around The World

Posted: September 26, 2023 | Last updated: September 26, 2023

Chart toppers

Largest hot spring: Waimangu Cauldron, New Zealand

The Waimangu Volcanic Valley on New Zealand’s North Island is a hotbed of geothermal activity. It’s where you’ll find the world's largest hot spring by surface area, and the world’s second largest in terms of discharge. Waimangu Cauldron, or Frying Pan Lake, as it’s more commonly known, is shallow (20 feet/6m) but covers an area of 409,029 square feet (38,000sqm). The thermal area of Waimangu, which means “black water” in Maori, was only created in 1886 after the powerful eruption of Mount Tarawera. With acidic waters at 122-140°F this isn’t a place you want to get too close to – a better idea is to board a scenic flight to admire it in all its steamy glory from above.

Most visited museum: the Musee du Louvre, France

Paris’s sprawling museum, the Musee du Louvre is officially the most visited museum in the world. It welcomed a whopping 7.8 million visitors through its iconic pyramid entrance in 2022. A former fortress and palace, opening as a museum in 1793, the incredible space is home to the world’s most famous painting, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa , along with 35,000 other pieces of art, including masterpieces by the likes of Edouard Manet, Titian and Rembrandt. The hallowed institute, also one of the world’s largest museums, began capping daily admissions in 2022 at 30,000 people. It also introduced timeslots to even out visitor numbers.

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Biggest cave: Son Doong Cave, Vietnam

Vietnam is full of awe-inspiring beauty but Son Doong Cave in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park takes it to another level. The main passage of this vast cavern is just over three miles (5km) long, with parts of it reaching up to 656 feet tall (200m) and 541 feet wide (165m). In total it’s over five-and-a-half miles (9km) long. Even more mind-blowing is that within its depths lie a primeval rainforest and underground river, and it has its own microclimate. You can’t just wander in, however. The cave can only be explored on a guided tour, and numbers are limited to 1,000 visitors a year to protect this extraordinary and fragile natural wonder.

Largest national park: Northeast Greenland National Park, Greenland

Northeast Greenland National Park is one of the world’s last pristine wildernesses, but you’ll have to join an expedition cruise to experience this icy landscape, of which 80% is permanently covered by the Greenland Ice Sheet. Measuring 375,300 square miles (972,000 sq km) and almost entirely untouched by humans, the high-Arctic ecosystem is the world’s largest national park and its largest protected land area. It’s roughly the same area as Spain and France combined. Those who do get to see it will be awed by its carved icebergs, otherworldly rock formations, snow-cloaked mountains and immense tundra. This is where polar bears and the extremely rare polar wolf roam. Narwhals, walruses and beluga whales also inhabit its frigid waters.

Smallest national park: Moyenne Island, Seychelles

Now we move from ice to the icing-sugar sand of the Seychelles, where you'll find the world's smallest national park. Moyenne is a privately owned island, just off the coast of Mahe. It sits within Sainte-Anne Marine Park but enjoys its own autonomy as a national park thanks to its late owner, a British conservationist called Brendon Grimshaw, who set up a trust to preserve and protect it from development. It’s possible to visit this lush speckle of an isle – you won’t need long to navigate its walking paths, as it’s only around a third of a mile long (less than half a kilometer), but you'll see a diverse amount of tropical vegetation. Moyenne has around 40 endemic plants, along with a healthy population of giant Aldabra tortoises.

Tallest building: Burj Khalifa, UAE

Thirteen years after the Burj Khalifa officially opened in downtown Dubai, the gleaming mega-tall skyscraper still holds the world record for the tallest building on the planet. The captivating tower sits at 2,716 feet (828m) and has 163 floors. It also lays claim to a litany of other record-busting features including having the highest outdoor observation deck in the world. When it opened in 2010, the Burj took the mantle from Taipei 101 in Taiwan, which stands at 1,666 feet tall (508m). Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Tower was set to dwarf Dubai’s iconic tower but work on its construction has stalled.

These are the world's tallest buildings with observation decks

Fastest roller coaster: Formula Rossa, UAE

Speedsters will find plenty to rev their engines at Ferrari World on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. This theme park has 40 rides and driving experiences but it’s Formula Rossa that most thrill-seekers steer a course to. The coaster’s cars go from 0 to 149 miles per hour (240km/h) in just 4.9 seconds while racing up to 170 feet (52m) in the air. The Ferrari-branded theme park is home to many more record-breaking attractions, including Flying Aces, the world's highest loop ride, while the park's space-frame structure is the largest ever built.

Longest zipline: Jais Flight, UAE

Another reason why thrill-seekers should put the UAE on their wish list is the Jais Flight, a jaw-dropping zipline that zooms riders over the rugged Jebel Jais mountain in Ras Al Khaimah. Riders are attached to the wire before they’re launched to zoom headfirst at speeds of up to 99 miles per hour (160 km/h) at a height of 5,512 feet (1,680m). It runs for just under two miles (2.83km) and lasts for three minutes, where riders (assuming they can open their eyes) get a bird’s eye view of the range’s rugged landscape.

Oldest restaurant: Restaurante Sobrino Botin, Spain

The wood oven in Restaurante Botin has been firing for over 300 years, roasting suckling pigs and lambs in the age-old Castilian style – in fact it’s never put out. This Madrid institution on Calle Cuchilleros was founded in 1725 and has been recognised as the world’s oldest restaurant by the  Guinness Book of Records . Not only is its characterful interior the picture of an 18th-century tavern but its recipes, which also include line-caught hake and Castilian soup, give you a taste of the past. It also boasts an atmospheric wine cellar, lined with some rare vintages.

Biggest hotel by number of rooms: the First World Hotel, Malaysia

Bright and brash, this behemoth in the Genting Highlands, just north of Kuala Lumpur, is the largest hotel in the world and proud of it. The First World Hotel is part of Resorts World Genting and has 7,351 guest rooms set across its two main rainbow-colored towers. As you’d expect, there’s a wide choice of rooms, from the bijou standard room to the world club rooms featuring 420 square feet (39sqm) of living space. The three-star hotel leads into the wider resort which has a shopping mall, casino, indoor theme park and golf course.

These are the highest hotel rooms in the world

Smallest hotel: The Eh'hausl Hotel, Germany

For those who prefer a more boutique experience, the Eh'hausl Hotel might be more appealing. This luxurious bolthole in Amberg, a charming medieval town in Bavaria, holds the Guinness World Record for the smallest hotel. Behind its red facade, there’s room for just two people, though it squeezes in space for a small whirlpool, flat screen TV and a mini spa. It's only 8.2 feet wide (2.4m) with a total floorspace of just 173 square feet (53sqm) over a few floors. But the little lodging has an extensive history. The building dates back to 1728 and its name translates as “the marriage house” as it was built to circumvent a law that only allowed couples to marry if they owned a house.

Oldest model village: Bekonscot Model Village, England, UK

Talking of tiny... Who doesn’t love a miniature village? Bekonscot Model Village & Railway in Buckinghamshire claims to be the world's oldest model village. This diddy delight opened in 1929 and exploring it is very much like stepping back into 1930s England. Across its 1.5-acre gardens are seven miniscule towns from the 1930s, with Bekonscot Town the flagship. In total there are more than 200 buildings, 3,000 inhabitants, 1,000 animals and hundreds of moving vehicles, with an intricate level of detail to them all. Peek inside the diminutive dwellings and you’ll find yet more cute little features.

Tallest roller coaster in the world: Kingda Ka, USA

Test your nerves at New Jersey's squeal-inducing Six Flags Great Adventure theme park. It's home to the record busting Kingda Ka, officially the tallest roller coaster in the world thanks to its inverted, U-shaped loop, which shoots up to 456 feet (139m), or around 45 stories. It's also the fastest roller coaster in North America, with riders whizzing from 0 to 128 miles per hour (206km/h) in just 3.5 seconds, before plummeting down towards the ground in a 270-degree spiral. 

Waterpark with the most slides: Atlantis Aquaventure, UAE

You'd have to seriously push yourself to try out all 50 slides and 105 attractions and experiences at Dubai's world-leading water park, Aquaventure at Atlantis, the Palm. Stay at the hotel though and you can give it a good go during your vacation, as guests get free entrance. Brave the Blackout to slide down an almost vertical drop or take the Leap of Faith for another high-speed drop before whizzing through a shark-filled lagoon. Ride the rapids along the longest lazy river in the region, leap off cliffs at Immortal Falls or take it easy on Aquaventure Beach. The already voluminous waterpark got even bigger in 2021, when new areas Trident Tower, Splashers Lagoon and Splashers Cove were added.

Oldest structure: Gobekli Tepe, Turkey

Created at a time before humans had domesticated animals or cultivated crops, Gobekli Tepe in Turkey is regarded as the oldest known monumental structure on Earth. These intriguing oval and rectangular limestone structures, which include elaborately carved T-shaped pillars, were erected 11,000 years ago – that’s a whopping 6,000 years before Stonehenge. It’s thought this hilltop structure in upper Mesopotamia, near Urfa, was used by hunter-gatherers as a kind of temple or meeting place for rituals.

These are the most incredible ancient discoveries made recently

Longest toboggan run: Big Pintenfritz, Switzerland

Since the late 19th-century the daredevil Swiss have launched themselves from the Faulhorn to Grindelwald Oberall by toboggan. Hailed as the world's longest toboggan run, this spectacular route runs for nine miles (15km) from an elevation of 8,792 feet (2,680m) and can be completed in 30 minutes by serious sledders. The Big Pintenfritz is named after local character Fritz Bohren, who ran the Hotel Bellevue in Grindelwald (known as the Pinte) and Berghotel Faulhorn from 1888 to 1926. He's said to have raced down the slopes between the two establishments by sled. To do the full course, you have to haul your sled from the first gondola cableway station to get to the run's start on Faulhorn's summit. It’s only accessible by foot.

Oldest national park: Yellowstone National Park, USA

On 1 March 1872, Yellowstone became the world’s first ever national park during the presidency of Ulysses S Grant in order to protect the extraordinary landscape. There are many more record-breaking things about this vast wilderness, which spreads 3,472 square miles (8,992sq/km) across Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. It has 10,000 hydrothermal features – more than the rest of the world combined. It's home to 67 mammal species and has the largest concentration of wildlife in the country’s lower 48 states. The park is especially famed for its bison and is also the only place in the US where these bulky beasts have lived continuously since prehistoric times.

Surprising facts about America's national parks

Largest church: the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast

This almighty structure is the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro in the Ivory Coast and it’s the world's largest single church building of any denomination, according to the Guinness Book of Records . Built in the country’s administrative capital Yamoussoukro between 1986–89, the Catholic basilica’s sprawling exterior measures 322,291 square feet (30,000sqm). It has a capacity for 8,000 seated worshippers inside and can contain crowds of hundreds of thousands on its outside grounds. It was the passion project of then President Felix Houphouet-Boigny and was modeled on the Vatican City’s St Peters.

Highest commercial bungee jump: Skypark Macau Tower, Macau

Got a serious head for heights and an adrenalin craving? Make for the Macau Tower and push yourself to the limit on its record-making bungee jump – it's the world's highest from a commercial building, according to the  Guinness Book of Records . The brainchild of New Zealand extreme sport pioneer AJ Hackett, Skypark Macau Tower’s bungee jump sees those who are game leap off a platform at a height of 764 feet (233m) from Macau's lofty tower. In winter you can even make the jump at night. After that, the landmark's other thrilling attractions – the skyjump, skywalk and tower climb – will barely get your heart racing. 

Busiest theme park: Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, USA

Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom Park is the world’s most popular theme park – it attracted 17.1 million visitors in 2022, which was still down a few million on pre-COVID years – in 2019, 20.9 million people paid a visit. With the iconic Cinderella’s Castle at its heart, this enchanting attraction in Orlando is packed with thrilling coasters, delightful kids' rides and entertainment at every turn – just make sure you brace yourself for the crowds. If you don't like busy places, this probably won't be the "happiest place on Earth" for you.

Oldest theater site in continuous use: Theatre Royal Drury Lane, England, UK

London oozes history and culture so it stands to reason that the city is home to the world’s oldest theater site. The Theatre Royal Drury Lane is the world’s oldest theater site in continuous use. A dramatist called Thomas Killigrew built the original Theatre Royal in 1663 under a royal charter from King Charles II. It’s here that Nell Gwyn, who later became a long-term mistress of the king, made her stage debut. The original theater burnt down in 1672, a second one was demolished and the third iteration also went up in flames. The fourth and current building opened in 1812. A Grade I listed Regency building, it was designed by architect Benjamin Dean Wyatt.

Biggest beach: Praia do Cassino Beach, Brazil and Uruguay

You'll definitely want to remember which car park you parked in when spending the day on Praia do Cassino Beach in Brazil's seaport of Rio Grande. Covering over 150 miles (241km) of the coast, this is the longest sea beach in the world. The sandy stretch sweeps south to the Chui Stream and Brazil's border with Uruguay. Parts are busy, developed and home to large casinos – hence its name – while other sections are empty and natural. An old rusting shipwreck lies on the sands at one point.

How many of the world's most beautiful beaches have you visited?

Largest year-round Christmas store: Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, USA

Crazy about Christmas? You’ll find all your festive dreams come true as soon as you step through the doors of Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth, Michigan. Kitsch doesn’t begin to cover the sparkly scenes within what is the largest year-round Christmas store in the world. The vast showroom covers 2.2 acres, while its total grounds measure 27 acres – including three giant Santas, a snowman and Christmas Lane, which is lit up by 100,000 fairy lights every evening. The family-run enterprise, which started in 1945 and has 700 employees in peak season, is clearly onto something as it welcomes two million customers every year.

Oldest public museums: Capitoline Museums, Italy

With the creation of its collection dating back to 1471, when Pope Sixtus IV donated some bronze statues to the people of Rome, the Capitoline Museums in Rome's Piazza del Campidoglio is often recognized as the world's oldest public museum. Subsequent popes donated priceless treasures too and now this collection of museums is home to an extraordinary array of Roman, medieval and Renaissance sculptures, as well as some paintings. One of its most precious items is a 2nd-century bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius on horseback; as well as the Capitoline wolf with Romulus and Remus. Located on Capitol Hill, the museums are completely surrounded by ancient history too.

Largest annual food fight: La Tomatina, Spain

If you hate food waste, look away now. Each year in Bunol, near Valencia in Spain, 20,000 people gather to lob around 150,000 kg of tomatoes at each other in the streets during La Tomatina, billed as the world's largest annual food fight. The curious festival has its origins in an innocuous tomato slinging fight that took place at a street parade in 1945 and became a tradition. The now world-famous spectacle is held on the last Wednesday of August and attracts tens of thousands of people every year.

Largest collection of haunted dolls: La Isla de las Munecas, Mexico

Prepare to be creeped out at this eerie island on Teshuilo Lake in the Xochimilco canals, just south of Mexico City. La Isla de las Munecas — or the Island of Dolls – is a niche record breaker, for sure, but a fascinating one. With around 4,000 sinister and mutilated dolls hanging from trees and covering its buildings, it is home to the biggest collection of haunted dolls in the world. The spooky site is said to have taken shape in the 1950s when a man witnessed a young girl drown. The next day a doll washed up in the same spot, after which he strung up dolls to ward off evil spirits.

World’s tallest statue: The Statue of Unity, India

Towering above the basin of the Narmada River and the Sardar Sarovar dam in Gujarat state, surrounded by the Satpura and Vindhyachal hills, the Statue of Unity depicts independence leader Sardar Vallabhai Patel. It was unveiled in 2018 and cost around $389 million. At 597 feet (182m) it is twice the size of the Statue of Liberty and claimed the record for being the world’s tallest statue from China’s Spring Temple Buddha, which sits at a comparatively piddling 420 feet (128m) high. 

Oldest bookshop: Livraria Bertrand, Portugal

Established in 1732, Bertrand bookshop in Lisbon is the store of dreams for all bibliophiles. People have come to browse its well-stocked shelves and gather to put the world to rights for hundreds of years. The culture-packed city is full of beautiful bookstores brimming with tomes, but this tile-adorned store on the corners of Rua Garrett and Anchieta in the Chiado district is the oldest of them all – and officially the oldest in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records . Take a pew on one of its sofas or in the literary-inspired cafe and drink in its bookish atmosphere.

Largest ancient castle: Prague Castle, Czech Republic

Measuring almost 753,473 square feet (70,000sqm), hilltop Prague Castle reigns supreme as the largest ancient castle in the world, according to the  Guinness Book of Records . It’s also one of the oldest. It was first founded by Prince Bonivoj in the late 9th century. Added to over the centuries, it’s now a dizzying complex of churches, towers, halls, palaces and gardens. It’s an absolute jewel in the picturesque capital’s crown, well deserving of multiple visits. Today it’s home to the Bohemian Crown Jewels, which are locked away in St Vitus Cathedral, and the castle is also the official home of the Czech Republic's president.

Highest outdoor infinity pool: Address Beach Resort, UAE

Scale the heights of glamor (both literally and figuratively) at Address Beach Resort in Dubai, a chi-chi high-rise hotel by Jumeirah Beach that’s crowned by the world’s highest outdoor infinity pool. Set 964 feet (294m) up, this stunning swimming spot offers sweeping views from its 77th-floor vantage point. Swimmers (who have to be guests at the hotel) can lap up the eye-popping views of Ain Dubai and the Arabian Gulf and gaze down on skyscrapers as they paddle or pose. There’s plenty of room to do both in this 311 foot-long (95m) pool. 

Now check out the best swimming pools in the US

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